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Modular Housing Crafted from Recycled Wood Blocks with Photovoltaic Roofing for Sustainable Living

Authors:
Eben Wagner, André Eksteen, Magdalena Cilliers
Modular Housing Crafted from Recycled Wood Blocks with Photovoltaic Roofing for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Crafted from recycled wood blocks and supported by a galvanized steel frame, this modular housing solution integrates photovoltaic roofing and flexible designs to enable self-construction for sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from recycled wood blocks, enhancing sustainability.
02
Galvanized steel frame designed for rapid assembly and durability.
03
Photovoltaic roofing integrated for energy self-sufficiency.
04
Flexible modular layout allows for customizable living spaces.
05
Water harvesting system supports ecological resilience and sustainability.

The architectural design project "Buy-Build-Adapt" aims to address housing shortages in underserved communities by providing a framework for self-construction. This project employs a modular design approach that allows individuals and families to build, modify, and expand living spaces as needed. The architecture represents sustainability, accessibility, and community empowerment, reflecting the pressing need for affordable housing solutions.

The project emphasizes the importance of local materials and labor. Its modular structure consists of a skeletal galvanized steel frame, which supports walls made from recycled wood and plastic blocks. This combination not only enhances durability but also incorporates sustainable practices, minimizing waste. The corrugated iron roofing allows for effective rainwater runoff and houses photovoltaic panels, promoting energy efficiency. Large windows facilitate natural ventilation and lighting, contributing to a comfortable living environment.

Design features include a grid system that allows for easy adjustment and expansion of living spaces. This adaptability is critical, as it permits families to grow their homes in response to changing needs. The project also integrates basic resources such as water storage tanks for rainwater collection, further supporting sustainability and self-sufficiency.

The modular design aspect distinguishes "Buy-Build-Adapt" from typical housing projects. While many designs consist of fixed layouts, this project offers flexibility, allowing users to customize their environments. The emphasis on engaging users in the construction process fosters a sense of ownership and promotes community interaction. This participatory approach not only builds houses but also encourages community development and resilience.

Additionally, the design incorporates innovative techniques that streamline the assembly process. The use of a standardized grid layout ensures that individual components can be easily connected, making the construction of homes straightforward and manageable, even for those with limited experience in building. This technical simplicity is a significant step forward in making housing more accessible to various demographics.

To gain a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas that shape this project, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation. This resource provides insights into the construction methodology and highlights the potential impact of the "Buy-Build-Adapt" initiative in addressing housing challenges within vulnerable communities.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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