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High-Strength Steel and Sustainable Panels Unite for Flexible Mobile Living

Authors:
Tat Hon Wong, Yee Ning Liu, Sebastian Demus
High-Strength Steel and Sustainable Panels Unite for Flexible Mobile Living

Project in-detail

Combining high-strength steel with energy-efficient Quadcore panels, the design creates a compact mobile living space that adapts effortlessly to diverse travel needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates Quadcore LEC insulated wall panels for enhanced energy efficiency.
02
Features high-strength steel construction for increased structural durability.
03
Emphasizes modular design, allowing for flexible interior arrangements.
04
Includes solar panels for renewable energy generation during travel.
05
Utilizes acrylic glazed windows for improved thermal performance and natural light.

### Overview
The Mobile Explorer project is located within the context of contemporary mobile living, aiming to merge the comforts of home with the experiences associated with travel. The concept seeks to facilitate mobility through various transportation methods, including vehicles and trains, while ensuring an inviting residential environment reminiscent of scenic landscapes such as the Swiss Alps and the Scottish Highlands. The design integrates cutting-edge features to enhance comfort and usability during travel.

### Spatial Strategy
The interior layout is designed to optimize flexibility and efficiency. The ground floor features an open-plan design that includes a functional kitchen, dining area, and living space, promoting a sense of community while maintaining necessary amenities. Modular furnishings are employed to maximize space utilization and adapt to diverse needs. The upper floor is designated for sleeping, featuring convertible furniture that enhances utility without sacrificing comfort or privacy. Large windows throughout foster a connection to the surrounding environment, providing panoramic views that enrich the travel experience.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Sustainability is a foundational principle of the Mobile Explorer, informed by the selection of high-performance materials that minimize environmental impact. Key components include Troldtekt V-Line acoustic ceilings, which improve sound insulation and energy efficiency, and Quadcore LEC insulated wall panels that offer superior thermal performance. The incorporation of solar panels further supports the project's sustainability goals by harnessing renewable energy. Additionally, the high-strength steel shell ensures structural integrity during transportation, while acrylic glazed windows provide effective thermal management and natural light. Modular furniture enhances living arrangements, offering both customization and efficient use of space.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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