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Mycelium Insulation and Hexagonal Modules for Flexible Urban Living

Author:
Matthew Shufelt
Mycelium Insulation and Hexagonal Modules for Flexible Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing mycelium insulation and a modular hexagonal design, this innovative urban housing solution addresses the need for flexible and sustainable living spaces in response to contemporary challenges.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes innovative mycelium insulation for enhanced thermal performance and sustainability.
02
Features a modular hexagonal layout, allowing for quick reconfiguration and adaptability of spaces.
03
Incorporates recycled metal panels as exterior cladding, promoting environmentally responsible design.
04
Designed with community-oriented spaces that encourage social interaction and collaboration among residents.
05
Emphasizes affordable housing solutions that address urban living challenges amidst contemporary crises.
The project “The City in Crisis” presents a nuanced exploration of modular housing architecture designed to address pressing urban challenges intensified over recent years. Through a thoughtful blend of functionality, adaptability, and sustainable practices, this design represents a necessary evolution in the realm of urban housing. Its core function is to provide flexible, affordable living spaces that respond to the varied needs of city dwellers facing economic, social, and health-related crises.

At its essence, this architectural project seeks to reposition how we think about housing in urban settings. The design revolves around a modular system, characterized by hexagonal living units that can be easily assembled, configured, and customized. This adaptability not only caters to individual needs but also fosters a sense of community among residents, promoting social interactions that are crucial during times of uncertainty. The layout encourages collaboration through shared spaces, enabling residents to engage in communal activities and support one another.

The materials chosen for “The City in Crisis” play a pivotal role in achieving the project’s sustainability goals. Each element has been selected to minimize environmental impact while ensuring durability and cost-effectiveness. Recycled metal panels serve as the primary exterior cladding, providing resilience against urban challenges while promoting environmentally conscious design practices. Mycelium mushroom insulation exemplifies innovation in the use of natural materials, offering both superior thermal performance and a biodegradable alternative to traditional insulation. This, combined with recycled plywood for internal components, reflects a commitment to utilizing resources that not only fulfill functional requirements but also align with eco-friendly principles.

The architectural design incorporates a variety of dwelling sizes, from compact individual units of 25 square meters to larger customizable spaces. This variation not only addresses a broad range of housing needs but also allows for scalable growth, making it suitable for different contexts within urban environments. The modular system enables quick assembly and disassembly, reinforcing the project's capacity to respond promptly to ever-changing circumstances, a crucial feature in times of crisis.

Significantly, the project takes a forward-thinking approach to health and well-being. It integrates spaces that facilitate privacy, social interactions, and even areas designated for quarantine, reflecting an understanding of the public health implications that arise during crises. This holistic design perspective emphasizes that architecture can serve dual purposes: providing shelter and fostering a healthy, thriving community.

What sets “The City in Crisis” apart is its deep-rooted intention to foster resilience. The unique modular approach, sustainability-minded material choices, and the emphasis on shared experiences all come together to create a living environment that is not only responsive to the present but also proactive in anticipating future challenges. The architectural design engages with contemporary issues while proposing practical solutions that can be realized in various urban contexts, making it highly relevant.

For those interested in a comprehensive understanding of this architectural endeavor, exploring the architectural plans and sections can provide valuable insights into the layout and organization of space. Delving into the architectural designs and ideas associated with this project will reveal its innovative aspects in greater detail, showcasing how effective design can contribute to meaningful change in urban living conditions. Engaging with the project presentation offers an opportunity to appreciate the thoughtful considerations that shape “The City in Crisis” and its potential to inspire future architectural initiatives dedicated to solving urban challenges.
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Enter an open architecture
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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