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Modular Living Units with Steel Frames and Sustainable Cork Insulation for Community Resilience

Authors:
Seoyeon Han, Seokmin Lee, Seok Min Lee
Modular Living Units with Steel Frames and Sustainable Cork Insulation for Community Resilience

Project in-detail

Modular units constructed with steel frames and enhanced by sustainable cork insulation provide efficient living solutions that foster community engagement for migrant workers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular configuration allows easy customization to fit varying family structures.
02
Innovative window system opens up to 90 degrees for enhanced space and light.
03
Integrated hydroponic gardens promote self-sufficiency within limited space.
04
Sustainable cork insulation contributes to energy efficiency and comfort.
05
Design adheres to local transport regulations for modular mobility.
The Continuous Community Container (CCC) architectural project addresses the housing needs of migrant workers in South Korea through innovative design and modularity. It operates under a compact footprint of 25 square meters, focusing on providing sustainable and flexible living solutions that comply with local regulations. The idea is to create a series of micro-housing units that facilitate community interaction while ensuring each unit remains adaptable to resident requirements.

The CCC is comprised of three distinct living modules: Family Main Module, Individual Cartridge, and Social Cartridge. This modular approach allows for customization while promoting spatial efficiency. The units are designed to enhance connectivity through an innovative window system that opens up to 90 degrees, expanding usable living space and maximizing natural light. Sustainability is a central tenet of the CCC, which incorporates renewable energy solutions such as photovoltaic panels and rainwater harvesting systems.

Unique Design Approaches
The CCC's emphasis on modularity offers residents a flexible living arrangement. Each housing unit can be tailored according to personal needs, supporting varying family structures and lifestyles. The design promotes social interaction through community corridors that connect individual units, ensuring privacy while facilitating collective activities. This layout fosters a sense of belonging among residents, creating a supportive community environment.

Another distinctive feature is the integrated hydroponic garden components that encourage self-sufficiency. This element not only enhances the living experience but also contributes to the environmental sustainability of the complex. By utilizing a thoughtfully curated material palette of container wall panels, steel frame structures, and cork insulation, the project balances functionality with energy efficiency.

Sustainability and Efficiency
Efficiency is prioritized in the project's design and material selection. The use of water storage tanks and greywater filtration systems further enhances self-sufficiency, making the units more viable for long-term residency. Each architectural element contributes to the overall functionality, ensuring that the living spaces meet essential needs while integrating seamlessly with the surrounding environment.

To explore the detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs of the Continuous Community Container, interested parties are encouraged to review the project presentation. These elements provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas and the comprehensive functionality of this unique housing solution for migrant workers.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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