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Microbial Cellulose Structure Incorporating Transparent PVC Tubes and Dynamic Color Variations

Author:
Karolina Bloch
Microbial Cellulose Structure Incorporating Transparent PVC Tubes and Dynamic Color Variations

Project in-detail

Utilizing microbial cellulose and transparent PVC tubes, the design showcases dynamic color variations while facilitating natural light interaction, creating a versatile space for community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes microbial cellulose as a primary construction material.
02
Incorporates transparent PVC tubes for nutrient delivery to the cellulose.
03
Features a dynamic color scheme that evolves with bacterial growth.
04
Designed with hexagonal units to enhance natural light penetration.
05
Encourages interaction between occupants and the surrounding ecosystem.

The project titled "Micro" explores the innovative use of microbial cellulose as a sustainable material within architectural design. This structure leverages the capabilities of biological materials to create a building that is both functional and environmentally responsive. The design features a series of stacked, elongated hexagonal units, which facilitate natural light penetration and respond dynamically to their surroundings. The application of this material not only emphasizes sustainability but also represents a shift in the architectural narrative towards greater ecological awareness.

Unique Materiality and Construction Techniques

Microbial cellulose serves as the primary building material for this project, derived from a fermentation process involving a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast. The resulting product exhibits remarkable properties, such as flexibility and strength, making it suitable for structural purposes. Sisal fibers are utilized for reinforcement, ensuring that the overall structural integrity is maintained while reducing reliance on traditional materials. Additionally, transparent PVC tubes are integrated within the design to enable nutrient transport to the microbial cellulose, reflecting an innovative construction technique that combines biology with architectural design.

The project integrates a color spectrum based on the type of bacteria and fruit used in the growth process, introducing an organic aesthetic that is not commonly found in conventional architecture. The living characteristics of the material create a dynamic visual experience as the colors shift over time, inherently linking the building’s aesthetic to its biological processes. This feature offers not only visual appeal but also stimulates conversations about the intersection of architecture and biology.

Spatial Organization and Interactivity

The organization of spaces within the building is intentional, with a spiral staircase that connects various levels, promoting fluid movement and interaction among occupants. Each floor is designed to foster engagement with the surrounding environment, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. The structure's height allows panoramic views and enhances the spatial experience, inviting exploration within this innovative environment.

Incorporating living materials fosters a deeper connection between inhabitants and their surroundings, encouraging users to interact with their environment in a meaningful way. This interactivity is a critical aspect of the project's design, emphasizing the role that architecture can play in enhancing user engagement with natural systems.

For a deeper understanding of this project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and more detailed architectural ideas, exploring the comprehensive project presentation is highly recommended. This examination will unveil the nuanced design strategies employed in "Micro," illustrating its contributions to contemporary architectural practice and sustainable design methodologies.

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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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