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Louvered Screens Mimicking Keratin Scales in Modular Living Spaces

Author:
Houston Whillock
Louvered Screens Mimicking Keratin Scales in Modular Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Inspired by the protective qualities of pangolin scales, the design employs operable louvered screens to create adaptable living spaces that balance privacy and communal interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the protective scales of pangolins for enhanced adaptability.
02
Operable louvered screens create dynamic interior and exterior transitions.
03
Layout prioritizes distinct activity zones to optimize usability.
04
Connects living spaces with the natural environment through light and air flow.
05
Emphasizes privacy and community interaction in an urban setting.

"The Pangolin - A Modular Living System" combines nature and design through a unique approach inspired by the characteristics of the pangolin. It is located in an urban area where flexible and functional living spaces are increasingly important. The concept centers around the use of movable elements that create an adaptable living environment, reflecting the protective and responsive nature of the pangolin.

Design Concept

The design highlights modularity and adaptability, featuring operable custom louvered screens that allow for various spatial configurations. These screens enable occupants to alter their surroundings based on personal preferences and daily needs. This flexibility maintains a balance between open and private spaces, addressing both social interaction and individual retreat.

Spatial Organization

The interior layout clearly defines areas for specific activities, including entering, sleeping, cleaning, living, childcare, cooking, and outdoor use. This arrangement maximizes the usability of space and promotes a natural flow for residents. It encourages both privacy and interaction, creating a comfortable environment that supports different lifestyles.

Biomimicry and Materiality

While specific materials are not extensively detailed, the design concept connects to the protective quality of keratin, similar to the scales of a pangolin. This link to nature suggests a focus on resilience and durability, which may influence future material choices to ensure lasting performance.

The operable screens play a crucial role in the overall design. They allow light to filter through while maintaining a sense of enclosure, keeping the living spaces connected to the outside. This approach fosters a relationship between the occupants and their environment, enhancing the quality of everyday life.

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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

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competition now

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