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High-Performance Insulated Panels and Modular Flexibility in Sustainable Living Solutions

Authors:
Byeong Wook Noh, Ju Yeon Hong
High-Performance Insulated Panels and Modular Flexibility in Sustainable Living Solutions
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Designed with high-performance insulated panels and modular flexibility, this sustainable living solution in Norway provides a resilient habitat that adapts to extreme environmental conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for easy expansion based on occupant needs.
02
High-performance insulated panels ensure superior energy efficiency in severe climates.
03
Hydraulic legs provide adaptability to uneven terrain and enhance stability.
04
Integrated solar panels facilitate off-grid living and reduce reliance on external energy sources.
05
The bent A-frame design fosters efficient snow shedding and structural resilience.

### Project Overview

Located in a challenging terrain, the Black Guardian project is designed as a modular architecture solution suitable for extreme environments. This initiative focuses on resilience, adaptability, and efficiency, providing both shelter and sustainable living options in inhospitable conditions. The design integrates contemporary aesthetics with practical functionality, addressing the complex demands of its location while offering robust housing solutions.

### Spatial Configuration and Functionality

The architectural framework consists of three interconnecting modules, each serving a distinct purpose: living, working, and communal areas. This modular approach enables scalability, allowing users to adjust the configuration based on evolving needs and environmental challenges. The living area fosters comfort through personalized spaces, while the working area supports productivity with equipped workstations and technology. The communal space promotes social interaction, incorporating a cooking zone and flexible storage to enhance usability in isolated settings.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The structural integrity of the Black Guardian is reinforced through the careful selection of materials. High-performance insulated panels form the outer wall to withstand extreme temperatures, complemented by lightweight composite materials in the inner wall for enhanced durability. Key sustainability features include solar panels for renewable energy, an efficient heat recovery ventilation system to maximize energy efficiency, and a collection system for optimal water management. Adjustable hydraulic legs allow for stable placement on uneven terrain, further underscoring the design's adaptability in extreme weather conditions. The matte black façade not only provides a bold aesthetic but serves functional purposes, ensuring energy efficiency and thermal comfort through high-performance glazing in the windows.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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