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Off-Grid Living With Polystyrene and Aluminum Modules

Authors:
Ye Tang, XinYao Wu, ShuWang Xu, MingJie Du
Off-Grid Living With Polystyrene and Aluminum Modules

Project in-detail

Crafted from lightweight polystyrene and aluminum, this compact structure offers a self-sufficient living solution designed for off-grid functionality and adaptability in diverse environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built using lightweight extruded polystyrene for enhanced insulation.
02
Incorporates aluminum modules for durability and ease of assembly.
03
Features a rainwater collection system to promote self-sufficiency.
04
Designed for quick setup in various environments with modular components.
05
Emphasizes off-grid living to reduce reliance on traditional utilities.

The Foldable Home presents a modern solution for housing that prioritizes flexibility and sustainable living. Set against contemporary lifestyle demands, it accommodates various uses, whether for work or leisure. The design allows it to unfold efficiently, changing from a compact unit to a livable space. This flexibility makes it suitable for diverse environments without compromising comfort or function.

Materials and Construction

The materials chosen for the Foldable Home are essential to its functionality and performance. Extruded plastic polystyrene board serves as the primary insulating material, enhancing energy efficiency. Aluminum alloy trim panels provide strength and a clean appearance, fitting the overall design aesthetic.

Wire mesh frame sandwich panels ensure structural stability while allowing creative design choices. The incorporation of glass fiber strip plates adds durability and resistance to different environmental conditions. Galvanized steel plates are used in the structure to improve longevity and weather resilience.

Sustainability Features

A key characteristic of the Foldable Home is its focus on sustainability through an integrated energy cycle system. It uses solar, wind, and water resources to create a self-sufficient environment. Solar panels generate off-grid electricity, while a rainwater collection system reduces reliance on conventional water supply.

This design encourages independence, giving occupants modern conveniences while minimizing their ecological impact. The space is arranged to include areas for essential activities, such as cooking and sanitation, fitting all necessary components into a compact layout.

Operational Efficiency

The Foldable Home operates with efficiency, featuring a straightforward process for expanding its living space. Modular components unfold easily, creating designated areas for work, relaxation, and sleep. This design promotes interaction with outdoor spaces, enhancing the living experience in different settings.

The thoughtful layout includes practical features to maximize utility and comfort. Careful attention is given to detail, ensuring a pleasant environment where daily activities can take place without much effort.

Natural light filters in through well-placed windows, illuminating the interior. This creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere that enhances the overall design and livability of the home. The combination of functionality and comfort makes the Foldable Home a noteworthy option for modern living.

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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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