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Mycelium Panels and Chidori Joints in Off-Grid Living Cube

Authors:
Alexandros Naylor, Chris Castiglia, Niousha Keyvaninejad
Mycelium Panels and Chidori Joints in Off-Grid Living Cube

Project in-detail

Constructed with mycelium panels and incorporating traditional chidori joints, the cube-shaped structure operates off-grid while housing all essential living functions in a compact footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with mycelium panels for enhanced insulation and sustainability.
02
Resilient chidori joints provide structural integrity while showcasing traditional craftsmanship.
03
The cube design optimizes living space around essential functions in a compact form.
04
Solar panels and water collection systems support complete off-grid capabilities.
05
Flexible grid layout enables future expansion according to occupant needs.

Nucleus House presents a thoughtful response to the need for sustainable living within a compact design. The residential structure is based around a central cube, which houses essential living spaces in an efficient arrangement. Key areas such as the kitchen, bathroom, office, and living room are positioned around the sides of the cube, while the bedroom sits above. This layout optimizes available space and emphasizes comfort and convenience for its occupants.

Materials Selection
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The design incorporates a range of materials that align with sustainability goals. Wood is used for its structural strength and warmth, creating a welcoming environment. Polycarbonate is included for its lightweight nature and clarity, allowing plenty of natural light to fill the interior while providing views of the surrounding area.

Mycelium Panels
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An innovative aspect of the building is the use of mycelium panels, crafted offsite. These panels contribute to the structure's insulation and water resistance. Additionally, they offer fireproofing benefits, showcasing a commitment to eco-friendly materials and construction methods.

Structural Integrity
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The use of the chidori joint, an ancient Japanese technique, is another critical feature. This joining method enhances the building's structural integrity and demonstrates careful attention to craftsmanship. The joints are noticeable in both the interior and exterior designs, blending traditional techniques with modern architecture.

Sustainable Features
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The gently sloping roof features solar panels and a water collection system. This encourages an off-the-grid lifestyle by making efficient use of natural resources. The roof design allows the home to function independently from traditional utility systems, highlighting its sustainable nature.

The grid layout also permits potential future expansions. As occupants' needs change, the design allows for flexibility. Each element serves a purpose, resulting in a harmonious blend of functionality and careful design. The result is a home that prioritizes both its inhabitants and the environment.

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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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