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Pre-Wired Steel Structures Enhancing User Agency in Modular Living Spaces

Author:
Gabriel Mateus
Pre-Wired Steel Structures Enhancing User Agency in Modular Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Pre-wired steel structures provide a flexible framework for modular homes that empower users to actively shape their living environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Prefabricated wall modules are delivered with installation instructions for user assembly.
02
Pre-wired steel beams enhance structural stability and ease of installation.
03
Homes can be easily reconfigured to accommodate changing user needs.
04
Users can remove and trade wall modules to promote community interaction.
05
The design emphasizes personal agency in creating custom living environments.

The DIY Homes project represents a significant change in how people can think about their living environments. It encourages users to take an active role in designing and constructing their homes. Located in a modern context, the project highlights flexibility and personalization in housing. Individuals are equipped with the necessary tools, allowing them to create spaces that reflect their personal identities and needs.

Modular Construction

The core of the DIY Homes design is its modular construction approach. This system allows easy assembly and customization of living spaces. Each wall module is prefabricated and comes with clear instructions for installation. This empowers users, giving them the confidence to set up their homes. The process is straightforward and promotes a sense of accomplishment in creating a personal space.



Structural Innovation

The project features pre-wired steel beams that connect effortlessly with the wall components. This design choice enhances the strength of the structure while simplifying the installation. When the walls are installed correctly, they are ready for immediate use. This practical integration of architectural elements emphasizes functionality, ensuring that the space is ready to accommodate its residents without delay.



Adaptability and Personalization

A notable benefit of the design is its ability to adapt. The wall modules allow for various furniture components to be incorporated easily. This gives residents the flexibility to change how they use their spaces according to their preferences. The ability to rearrange and personalize living areas reflects a modern understanding of how people live today and the importance of choice in the design process.



Economic and Social Implications

The project also introduces an interesting perspective on homeownership. Wall modules can be removed and potentially traded, encouraging residents to interact economically with one another. This feature could foster a sense of community among users, allowing them to shape their environments together. It creates a living arrangement where flexibility and collaboration are key, recognizing the changing needs of individuals over time.



The design reflects a careful balance between personal expression and practical living. Features like pre-wired structures ensure that each home is functional right from the start. This focus on user engagement and flexibility allows individuals to truly shape their spaces, resulting in environments that are uniquely their own.

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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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