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Honeycomb Cardboard Housing Integrated with Vertical Gardens for Sustainable Living

Authors:
Lorenzo Di Pardo, Beatrice Fusilli
Honeycomb Cardboard Housing Integrated with Vertical Gardens for Sustainable Living
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Combining honeycomb cardboard construction with vertical gardens and a micro-farming system, this solution offers a sustainable living environment tailored for students and urban dwellers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes honeycomb cardboard for lightweight and sustainable construction.
02
Incorporates vertical gardens to enhance air quality and food accessibility.
03
Features a micro-farming system to promote local food production.
04
Designed to adapt for urban, rural, and university environments.
05
Facilitates community engagement through an accessible assembly process.

Blocks is an innovative housing design that aims to meet the needs of various living environments, including urban neighborhoods, countryside areas, and university campuses. The central idea focuses on the modular nature of a wooden cube, which can be easily turned into functional living spaces. With a design that emphasizes flexibility, the project incorporates essential technologies such as water recycling and solar energy. It ultimately seeks to provide affordable and adaptable housing for professional couples, students, and workers.

Modularity and Functionality

The design of Blocks utilizes a modular approach, allowing units to serve multiple functions while minimizing the environmental footprint. Each unit includes essential facilities: a shower room, toilet, sleeping area, working space, kitchen, dining, and living areas, as well as space for utilities. This thoughtful arrangement encourages effective movement and interaction among occupants while addressing the basic needs of modern living.

Construction and Assembly

Blocks simplifies the construction process, making it easier for communities to become involved in the building of their own homes. Key phases include anchoring the structure, wall assembly, and roof construction, which contribute to the adaptability of each unit according to the unique requirements of its residents. This user-friendly approach fosters a sense of ownership among occupants, creating a supportive community atmosphere.

Sustainable Design Features

A unique aspect of Blocks is the inclusion of vertical gardens and micro-farming systems. These components serve both practical and aesthetic purposes. They enhance air quality while providing residents with access to fresh produce, reinforcing the project’s focus on sustainability. By integrating these features, the design encourages community engagement, connecting residents with their environment in meaningful ways.

Materiality

The units utilize honeycomb cardboard as a primary structural element. This material is lightweight yet strong, ensuring the integrity of each module while remaining environmentally friendly. Additionally, Ipe wood trim is employed for its durability, contributing to the overall sustainability and longevity of the structure.

The layout of Blocks stands out through its interconnected living spaces and clear pathways. It reflects careful planning that prioritizes functional living while embracing sustainability and community involvement. The thoughtful arrangement of each element reveals a design that responds to the real needs of its users, all within a framework that considers the greater urban landscape.

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Enter an open architecture
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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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