Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Mycelium Structures Integrating Forest Ecosystems Through Sustainable Housing Solutions

Author:
Sean Patrick Jarvis
Mycelium Structures Integrating Forest Ecosystems Through Sustainable Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing mycelium as a primary structural material, this housing solution seamlessly integrates with the forest ecosystem, promoting ecological restoration while providing adaptable living spaces for residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes mycelium panels for construction, promoting biodegradable building practices.
02
Incorporates bioremediation functions to enhance local soil health and biodiversity.
03
Features flexible modular interiors to accommodate varying resident needs.
04
Integrates large openings for natural ventilation and light, supporting occupant well-being.
05
Sited on previously disturbed land to restore ecological balance in the forest.

## Project Overview
Located in the San Juan National Forest in Colorado, MYCROHOME represents a forward-thinking architectural initiative that addresses issues of ecological degradation and the repurposing of abandoned mining lands. The design philosophy centers on sustainable living, utilizing mycelium, the root structure of fungi, alongside other biomaterials. The project aims to foster community reintegration while prioritizing ecological stewardship through innovative building techniques.

### Adaptive Living and Ecological Integration
MYCROHOME reimagines conventional shelter by creating a symbiotic relationship between habitation and the surrounding environment. The project consists of a network of micro dwellings designed to enhance the local ecosystem by improving soil productivity and encouraging biodiversity. Each unit adapts to seasonal changes and user needs, allowing for flexible configurations that support various living arrangements. Located on previously disturbed sites, the design incorporates visual and environmental integration with the landscape, minimizing disruption to the forest.

### Innovative Materiality
The construction of MYCROHOME employs a range of sustainable materials, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility:
- **Mycelium Panels**: These panels form the primary structural component, promoting sustainable decomposition at the end of their lifecycle.
- **Locally Sourced Wood**: The project utilizes wood for structural elements and finishes, sourced in cooperation with the National Forest Service.
- **Reclaimed Materials**: Salvaged wood and other reclaimed components reinforce the sustainability goals of the design.
- **Glass**: Strategically incorporated to optimize natural light while ensuring thermal efficiency.

The architectural outcomes feature fluid geometry that harmonizes with the natural topography, and interior spaces divided by modular mycelium panels enhance adaptability and interaction among inhabitants. Each dwelling is designed to function as a micro-habitat, utilizing decomposing materials to nourish local flora and fauna, thereby facilitating natural regeneration and bioremediation. Detailed site maps and adaptive plans provide insights into implementation strategies and the potential for dwelling configurations, underscoring resilience against environmental changes.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy