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Mycelium Insulation and Recycled Metal Cubes for Urban Living Solutions

Author:
Matthew Shufelt
Mycelium Insulation and Recycled Metal Cubes for Urban Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Constructed of mycelium insulation and recycled metal, these modular cubes provide flexible housing solutions for communities facing displacement in urban environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular cubes can be constructed off-site for quicker deployment.
02
Mycelium insulation enhances thermal performance while being environmentally friendly.
03
Units are designed to function independently or connect to existing infrastructure.
04
Cubes can be positioned on rooftops or in backyards to maximize space.
05
Recycled metal cladding ensures durability and reduces environmental impact.

The project offers a practical response to challenges faced in urban areas during 2020, particularly those brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and related social issues. Located in contemporary cities, it focuses on modular cubes that provide flexible and adaptable living spaces. These units are designed to meet varied needs, serving healthcare workers, vulnerable individuals, and communities affected by displacement. The aim is to create effective housing solutions that address urgent needs in urban settings.

Design Concept
The system is centered around modular cubes that can be constructed both on-site and off-site. This flexibility allows for quick assembly and easy transportation. Each cube is a self-contained living unit that can operate without connection to traditional infrastructure, or it can integrate with existing systems when necessary. This design allows for a diverse range of applications in various living situations.

Functionality and Adaptability
These modular cubes maximize their utility for different urban populations. They can be positioned on rooftops or in backyards, making use of otherwise empty space. This positioning not only enhances the aesthetics of the environment but also serves specific needs for temporary housing for people displaced by crises. The design promotes community engagement by creating spaces where people can live and interact.

Material Selection
A commitment to sustainable materials is evident in the construction of the cubes. Recycled metal panel cladding ensures durability while remaining environmentally conscious. Mycelium mushroom insulation improves energy efficiency without harmful effects. The cubes also incorporate oriented strand board as exterior sheathing for weather protection, and sustainably sourced timber combined with recycled plywood for interior surfaces adds to their ecological footprint.

Architectural Language
The overall design maintains a minimal approach, placing importance on functionality rather than decorative elements. This simplicity fosters a calm atmosphere that supports essential living. The shapes and layouts of the cubes are varied, allowing for efficient use of space and resources. This encourages residents to thoughtfully interact with both the design of their homes and the surrounding urban landscape.

Within city environments, these modular cubes provide a straightforward solution to urban living that emphasizes utility and responsiveness to current housing needs. Their design balances function with the principles of sustainability and community, offering a practical answer to the challenges of modern urban life.

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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

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