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Modular Green Walls Enhanced by Aluminum Panels in a Biodiversity-Focused Habitat

Authors:
Laura Rajakorpi, Sara Siivonen
Modular Green Walls Enhanced by Aluminum Panels in a Biodiversity-Focused Habitat

Project in-detail

Modular green walls constructed from lightweight growth mediums and perforated aluminum panels create a habitat that fosters urban biodiversity while providing essential living space for community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular green walls support native flora and create habitats for pollinators.
02
Perforated aluminum panels enhance ventilation while maintaining structural integrity.
03
The design includes a dedicated insect hotel module for biodiversity support.
04
Utilizes lightweight growth mediums to optimize plant health and ecosystem resilience.
05
Incorporates rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management.

### Overview
"A House for Pollinators" is a project situated in an urban context, specifically designed to combat the decline of pollinator populations while enhancing biodiversity. The intent is to transform underutilized spaces, like parking lots, into vibrant ecosystems that support both human activity and various pollinators. By integrating environmental sustainability with urban living, the design prioritizes ecological awareness alongside functional living spaces.

### Spatial Strategy
The building comprises triangular modules that serve multifunctional purposes, optimizing both structural efficiency and aesthetic value. This modular form not only creates a dynamic façade but also facilitates diverse uses across three distinct levels: the first level focuses on rest and essential amenities; the second level provides facilities for dining and communal interaction; and the third level caters to work and social activities. The thoughtful layout encourages social engagement while maintaining the necessary spaces for pollinator habitats.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Material selection is crucial for achieving the project's sustainability objectives. Perforated aluminum sheets are utilized for green wall modules, promoting both ventilation and visual interest. Lightweight growth mediums like peat and coconut coir support vegetation on these walls, while recyclable wood fiber insulation enhances thermal performance. Energy-efficient windows contribute to a reduction in energy consumption, and wooden trusses serve as a sustainable structural solution. Additionally, the incorporation of rainwater harvesting and photovoltaic panels reflects a commitment to sustainable systems throughout the design.

With these elements, the project not only provides a safe habitat for local flora and fauna but also establishes a precedent for urban architecture that actively supports ecological conservation.

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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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