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Photovoltaic Sunshades and Shipping Containers Redefining Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Fabrizio Statelli
Photovoltaic Sunshades and Shipping Containers Redefining Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing repurposed shipping containers outfitted with photovoltaic sunshades, this sustainable housing solution offers a modular approach to urban living that prioritizes resource efficiency and environmental responsibility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes repurposed shipping containers for reduced environmental impact.
02
Incorporates photovoltaic films in adjustable sunshades for energy generation.
03
Employs a rainwater collection system for self-sufficiency in water management.
04
Features Troldtekt panels for enhanced acoustic performance and thermal efficiency.
05
Includes telescopic foundation supports for adaptability to uneven terrain.

### Overview
The Sunflower Project focuses on the adaptive reuse of shipping containers to create sustainable living environments. Designed to address environmental concerns and resource management, the project emphasizes ecological responsibility and functional design. Although the specific location remains unspecified, the adaptability of the design suggests applicability across various geographical contexts.

### Spatial Adaptability and Material Efficiency
The primary design strategy involves transforming shipping containers into residential units, thereby minimizing the environmental impact associated with conventional construction methods. The use of **Container HC 40** ensures structural integrity and durability while allowing for efficient site preparation. Key features include telescopic feet that accommodate uneven terrain, facilitating rapid deployment in diverse settings, such as temporary housing or emergency shelters.

### Sustainable Systems and User-Centric Technologies
A crucial aspect of the project is the integration of renewable energy systems and water management solutions. Photovoltaic films incorporated into adjustable sunshades provide energy generation while optimizing natural light control. Rainwater capture systems are designed to enhance water sustainability. The interior employs **Troldtekt panels** for their acoustic properties and safe, eco-friendly composition, creating a comfortable living environment. Additionally, smart home technologies enable residents to monitor and control energy use effectively, tailoring the living space to individual preferences and environmental conditions.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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