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Honeycomb Housing with Glulam Timber and Integrated Green Spaces

Author:
Lucrezia Urso
Honeycomb Housing with Glulam Timber and Integrated Green Spaces

Project in-detail

Constructed with a honeycomb structure and glulam timber, the development incorporates rainwater harvesting and integrated green spaces, creating a sustainable solution for affordable housing in urban settings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular honeycomb design allows for easy reconfiguration of housing units.
02
Rainwater harvesting system enhances water efficiency for non-potable uses.
03
Integrated green spaces promote biodiversity and offer residents gardening opportunities.
04
Glulam timber provides structural strength while maintaining sustainability.
05
Passive ventilation system minimizes energy use for air circulation and comfort.

The design focuses on affordable housing in London, featuring a modular honeycomb structure that adapts to various urban environments. This approach effectively addresses the housing shortage while encouraging sustainable living. The concept emphasizes flexibility, allowing each unit to change configuration or location easily, making construction efficient and budget-friendly through offsite manufacturing.

Modularity and Flexibility

At the heart of the design is the idea of modularity. Each housing unit can be interchanged, allowing for diverse configurations without significant disruption. This flexibility not only streamlines the construction process but also caters to the varying needs of urban residents. The design shows that adapting to community requirements can create effective living spaces.

Sustainability Measures

Sustainability is a key feature of the design, aligned with principles of Zero Carbon Housing. A rainwater harvesting system captures water from the roof, storing it for non-potable uses. This reduces waste and promotes conservation. The project also uses passive ventilation, drawing on natural wind and stack effects to provide fresh air to the living spaces. This approach minimizes the reliance on energy-intensive mechanical systems.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is integrated throughout the project. Photovoltaic and solar panel systems are part of the roofing design, supplying some of the electrical needs of the housing units. Solar thermal panels help meet hot water demands during peak usage. The use of thermal mass aids in maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures, as the compact design allows for effective heat storage.

Integration with Nature

Natural light is a priority within the design. The stepped arrangement of the units ensures that each space receives sufficient daylight, contributing to the overall well-being of the residents. Additionally, built-in flower beds and extended balconies invite greenery into each unit. This aspect not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a habitat for pollinators, fostering local biodiversity.

The structure relies on a timber-frame, utilizing glulam timber to ensure strength and sustainability. High-performance vapor-permeable breather membranes contribute to the building's airtightness, enhancing energy efficiency and comfort for occupants. This focus on practical materials and design methods results in a functional and responsive housing solution.

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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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