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Modular Living Inspired by Organic Growth for Urban Communities

Author:
Scott Zhou
Modular Living Inspired by Organic Growth for Urban Communities

Project in-detail

Modular units inspired by organic growth provide flexible and affordable housing solutions for urban communities, addressing the need for adaptable living spaces in high-density cities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular components allow for easy customization and adaptability in living spaces.
02
Inspired by organic growth, the design integrates natural elements with geometric shapes.
03
Fast-loading construction facilitates quick assembly in various urban locations.
04
Focused on affordability, the solution addresses housing challenges in high-demand cities.
05
The structure encourages community interaction through open and flexible layouts.

The ECO HIVE offers a new approach to housing that responds to the challenges of affordability in busy cities. Designed for locations like Shanghai, Tokyo, New York, and Paris, its modular system aims to create flexible living spaces. The overall concept is built around the idea of modularity, allowing different parts of the structure to work together while maintaining their independence.

Modularity

The design focuses on modularity, enabling the replacement or addition of components without compromising the integrity of the whole system. This feature allows for a variety of living configurations, catering to different needs and preferences. Occupants can customize their spaces, making it a practical solution for diverse urban populations.

Organic Growth

An essential aspect of the ECO HIVE is its inspiration from organic growth. The design combines natural forms with geometric shapes, encouraging a connection between the home and nature. This integration leads to a more inviting atmosphere and a better quality of life for residents. By reflecting elements found in natural settings, the architecture offers both comfort and a sense of belonging.

Fast-Loading Structure

The fast-loading structure of the ECO HIVE is a significant element that allows for quick assembly in various locations, as long as the appropriate permissions are granted. This design choice addresses the complicated land issues often faced in urban areas, making it easier to implement in high-demand environments. The structure's mobility supports the goal of improving access to affordable housing.

The ECO HIVE exemplifies an engaged approach to modern living, emphasizing practical solutions and environmental awareness. Design details such as open spaces and an abundance of light enhance the living experience, fostering a sense of community among residents.

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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
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