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Mycelium Insulation and Elevated Bamboo Panels in Flexible Urban Housing Design

Authors:
Jing xi Foo, Bryan jia en Lee, Abbrielle Loh, Ernest Tock
Mycelium Insulation and Elevated Bamboo Panels in Flexible Urban Housing Design

Project in-detail

Elevated bamboo panels and innovative mycelium insulation converge in a versatile urban housing solution that adapts seamlessly to diverse living needs while promoting sustainability and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates mycelium insulation for enhanced thermal performance and environmental sustainability.
02
Utilizes modular hexagonal units that allow for rapid assembly and reconfiguration.
03
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems to support self-sufficient water management.
04
Features elevated structures to minimize flood risk and adapt to rising sea levels.
05
Includes community farming spaces within the design to promote local food production and ecological diversity.
The architectural project known as The Metabolist represents a significant exploration within the realm of sustainable and adaptable housing solutions. Positioned as a response to contemporary environmental challenges, urban density, and the need for community-oriented living spaces, this project manifests the principles of modularity and resilience. The design emphasizes the importance of creating dwellings that not only meet the needs of diverse populations but also harmonize effectively with their surroundings, showcasing a thoughtful integration of architecture and the natural world.

At the heart of The Metabolist is the notion of flexibility. The design incorporates hexagonal modular units that allow for varied configurations, enabling residents to personalize their living spaces according to their unique requirements. This flexibility facilitates the accommodation of different household sizes and functions—ranging from single individuals to larger families—without sacrificing the sense of community that is vital in urban environments. The interconnected pathways between units encourage interaction while simultaneously maintaining a degree of privacy for residents, thus balancing individual needs with collective engagement.

One of the most notable features of this architectural design is its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsiveness. The project exemplifies contemporary design approaches by utilizing materials that are both durable and sustainable. Key materials used in the construction include bamboo, aluminum, mycelium, solar panels, cork insulation, and glass. Bamboo serves as a primary structural element due to its strength and rapid regeneration, while aluminum offers lightweight protection from the elements. Mycelium, an innovative and organic insulation choice, serves not just as a functional material but also as a representation of the project's ethos towards eco-friendly living.

The design incorporates advanced climate adaptation strategies, such as elevated structures that protect against flooding and integrated renewable technologies like solar panels to generate energy. These features collectively support the goal of achieving net-zero energy use across the project. The integration of water management systems, including rainwater harvesting and innovative atmospheric water extraction techniques, adds an important layer of resilience and resourcefulness, ensuring that residents have access to clean water while minimizing their environmental footprint.

The Metabolist also pays careful attention to biodiversity, incorporating urban farming spaces and wildlife habitats within the layout to enhance local ecosystems. This approach not only serves residents' needs for food and recreation but also contributes positively to the environment by encouraging a diverse range of plant and animal life. The architecture of the project, therefore, transcends mere functional living spaces and becomes a catalyst for ecological and social interaction.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout The Metabolist, particularly in its modularity and adaptability. These aspects allow for swift assembly and reconfiguration of living spaces, making the project suitable for a variety of locations and conditions. Residents can customize their units and communal spaces to meet changing life circumstances, promoting a dynamic environment where change is not only possible but embraced.

This architectural endeavor is more than just a collection of buildings; it represents a forward-thinking vision for urban living that actively engages with pressing societal issues. By fostering a sense of community and environmental consciousness, The Metabolist stands as a model for future housing projects that prioritize sustainability, inclusivity, and adaptability. Readers interested in a deeper understanding of this remarkable project are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and design details to appreciate its comprehensive approach and thoughtful execution. The Metabolist invites a closer examination of innovative architectural ideas that reflect an evolving understanding of responsible living in the modern world.
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MICROHOME
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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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