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Modular Micro-Home with Rockwool Insulation and Polycarbonate Facade

Author:
Maximilian Gehron
Modular Micro-Home with Rockwool Insulation and Polycarbonate Facade
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Constructed with a modular framework of Rockwool insulation and enhanced by a polycarbonate façade, this micro-home optimizes urban space while providing efficient living solutions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed to fit into narrow urban gaps, enhancing space utilization.
02
Utilizes a unique Rockwool lightweight system for superior insulation and fire resistance.
03
Features a polycarbonate façade that maximizes natural lighting while maintaining thermal efficiency.
04
Designed for modularity, allowing multiple configurations to adapt to resident needs.
05
Incorporates natural ventilation through strategically placed window casements for climate control.

"ZERO HOME" is a design focused on addressing housing challenges in cities where high population density makes affordable living spaces hard to find. The micro-home concept offers a solution that emphasizes efficient use of limited space. Its modular nature allows it to adapt to various urban environments, making it suitable for different community needs.

Design Concept

At the heart of "ZERO HOME" is a modular structure shaped like a shoebox, which can be arranged in several ways depending on the site. These configurations include vertical placements in tight urban gaps or horizontal layouts that maximize space. This flexibility allows for diverse living arrangements, making it possible for the design to cater to a broad range of residents and their evolving needs over time.

Spatial Organization

An important aspect of the design is how it integrates public and private areas. A functional core connects essential rooms like the kitchen and bathroom, enhancing the livability of compact spaces. This core acts as a central point, guiding movement throughout the home and ensuring that the overall layout remains practical while optimizing the available area.

Energy Efficiency

"ZERO HOME" aims to meet energy standards by incorporating features that promote sustainability. The walls are built using a lightweight construction system that provides excellent insulation and supports the structure’s framework. Complementary metal profiles strengthen the overall design. The façade, made from polycarbonate materials, supports thermal performance, allowing ample light into the space while keeping energy use low.

Ventilation Strategies

Ventilation is a key consideration in achieving comfort within the home. The design includes windows that facilitate natural airflow, leveraging convection to help keep indoor temperatures pleasant, particularly in warm weather. This natural ventilation approach reduces energy demands, improving overall living conditions.

The building includes an inclined façade that functions both as a roof and a wall. This detail not only helps with rainwater drainage but also increases the amount of space available inside. Such thoughtful design elements reflect a commitment to creating functional living environments even within the constraints of urban settings.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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