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Modular Living Spaces with Engineered Bamboo and Flexible Design for Sustainable Housing

Authors:
Vito Burdi, Addler Elizalde lozano, Giacomo Caputo
Modular Living Spaces with Engineered Bamboo and Flexible Design for Sustainable Housing

Project in-detail

Engineered bamboo construction provides a resilient and flexible framework for this modular living space, designed to adapt to varying climates while offering sustainable housing solutions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Engineered bamboo panels provide structural strength while promoting sustainability.
02
The design features modular components that allow for easy reconfiguration.
03
An earthquake-resistant bracing system enhances durability in seismic zones.
04
Natural ventilation strategies optimize climate control without mechanical systems.
05
Elevated design protects living spaces from potential flooding hazards.

“The Seed” is an architectural project designed to provide sustainable and adaptable living spaces in a tropical climate. This compact unit measures approximately 20 square meters and is structured to facilitate efficient use of space while promoting a communal lifestyle. The project emphasizes a modular design, allowing for customization and flexibility according to user needs and site characteristics.

The functional layout includes designated areas for living, cooking, resting, and yoga practice. Each space is tailored to enhance comfort and usability, ensuring that residents can engage in daily activities seamlessly. The design effectively blends aesthetics and practicality, positioned within a framework that supports environmental considerations.

Modular Design and Adaptability

A significant differentiating factor of “The Seed” is its modular approach, which allows for the assembly of individual components based on user preference or site conditions. This versatility not only supports diverse lifestyles but also encourages easier relocation and adaptation over time.

The innovative use of materials is another important aspect of the project. Engineered bamboo serves as the primary structural element, combining sustainability with strength, while the bamboo truss roof system enables effective rainwater drainage and natural ventilation. The Earthquake Resistant Bracing System (ERBS) reinforces the structure’s ability to withstand seismic activity, providing safety in regions prone to natural disasters.

Sustainability and Resilience

Sustainability stands at the core of this project. Bamboo, a rapidly renewable resource, is utilized extensively, showcasing a commitment to environmentally-friendly building practices. This is complemented by the integration of solar panels to harness renewable energy, further minimizing the ecological footprint.

Furthermore, the design incorporates flood-resistant features by elevating the living spaces above potential flooding zones. The overarching strategy promotes resilience and longevity, safeguarding inhabitants against climate-related challenges.

For more detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and unique design approaches of “The Seed,” explore the project presentation. A closer look at the architectural designs and ideas can provide a comprehensive understanding of how this project addresses contemporary housing needs while adhering to principles of sustainability and adaptability.

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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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