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Modular Living Spaces Constructed from Shipping Containers with Integrated Solar Solutions

Modular Living Spaces Constructed from Shipping Containers with Integrated Solar Solutions
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Utilizing repurposed shipping containers and integrating advanced solar energy systems, this sustainable housing solution combines modularity with efficient design to meet the diverse needs of contemporary living in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes repurposed shipping containers as primary structural elements to enhance sustainability.
02
Incorporates advanced polycarbonate mesh for improved cooling and ventilation.
03
Features a central courtyard designed to promote natural light and airflow.
04
Integrates integrated solar panels to achieve energy efficiency and reduce utility costs.
05
Designed to allow for easy expansion or reconfiguration to meet changing family needs.

### Overview
Located in Dubai, the House of the Future addresses the increasing housing demand fostered by the city's rapid urban expansion and population density. The project utilizes innovative construction methods, with a focus on sustainability, modularity, and adaptability, to create a residential space that is both functional and responsive to contemporary needs.

### Spatial Configuration
The design occupies a 450 m² plot, strategically organized to delineate private and communal living areas. Central to the plan is a courtyard that promotes natural cross-ventilation, enhancing indoor air quality and providing an equitable outdoor space. The layout includes a Majlis, reflecting the cultural importance of social interaction, alongside living and service areas that facilitate effective circulation and privacy. Vertical circulation paths ensure accessibility across multiple levels, optimizing user experience within the home.

### Material Choices
The construction employs shipping containers as primary structural elements, promoting modularity and efficient transport. Polycarbonate mesh provides effective cooling by filtering sunlight, while recycled materials from decommissioned containers integrate sustainability into the building process. Additional features include modular steel columns for structural integrity and integrated solar panels to reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources. The cooling mesh not only enhances thermal comfort but also contributes to the facade's visual appeal, combining functional and aesthetic considerations in a cohesive design.

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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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Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025
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