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Inflatable Membranes and Composite Materials Shaping Sustainable Lunar Living

Author:
Shujian You
Inflatable Membranes and Composite Materials Shaping Sustainable Lunar Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing inflatable membranes and advanced composite materials within a natural lava tube, this lunar habitat redefines the possibilities of sustainable extraterrestrial living through modular adaptability and environmental integration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes inflatable membranes for flexible interior spaces.
02
Constructed within a natural lava tube for enhanced protection.
03
Modular design allows for rearrangement based on mission needs.
04
Incorporates advanced composite materials for thermal insulation.
05
Maximizes natural light through transparent membrane sections.

## Overview
Project Veil is designed as a lunar habitat situated within a natural lava tube on the Moon, addressing the complex challenges of extraterrestrial living while catering to the essential needs of human occupants. The design utilizes modular components, advanced material technology, and adaptability to create a cohesive living environment that supports long-term habitation.

## Strategic Positioning
The habitat’s location within the lava tube provides inherent protection against the Moon's harsh external conditions, enhancing safety and stability. The layout prioritizes access to the lunar surface while allowing for versatile arrangements of living modules. This approach underscores the project's commitment to fostering a regenerative environment, promoting sustainability for extended missions.

## Materiality
The material choices are pivotal to the habitat's functionality and durability. The design employs 3D-printed polymers for efficient on-site construction of habitat components, alongside inflatable membranes that offer flexibility and spaciousness. Composite materials are utilized for the protective facade, enhancing thermal insulation and impact resistance. This selection not only ensures lightweight and resilient structures but also maximizes the use of in-situ lunar resources.

## Functional Zoning
The organization of space within Project Veil is methodically divided into distinct zones:
- **Living Quarters**: Designed for privacy and equipped with essential amenities for comfort during long-term stays.
- **Common Areas**: Intended for social interaction and collaborative activities, fostering a sense of community among inhabitants.
- **Service Facilities**: Strategically located to provide easy access to systems for waste management, food production, and healthcare, reinforcing the habitat’s self-sufficiency and operational efficiency.

Project Veil exemplifies a comprehensive design that balances immediate living requirements with the principles of adaptability and environmental consideration.

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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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