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Prefabricated Accessory Units for Efficient Urban Living

Author:
Kyle Recker
Prefabricated Accessory Units for Efficient Urban Living

Project in-detail

Constructed from prefabricated modular units, this approach addresses urban housing needs by providing efficient living solutions through Accessory Dwelling Units in Los Angeles.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for customizable living configurations to suit individual needs.
02
Prefabrication reduces on-site construction time significantly.
03
Each unit integrates utilities before transportation to the site.
04
Designed specifically for integration into existing urban neighborhoods.
05
Promotes sustainable living by optimizing land use in Los Angeles.

The Modular Home project addresses the growing need for housing in suburban areas, with a specific focus on Los Angeles, CA. The plan incorporates Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to provide additional living options on existing residential lots. The design concept revolves around modularity to enhance construction efficiency and offer flexible living spaces that cater to a diverse range of lifestyles.

Modular System

The design utilizes a series of standard-sized modules, which come in lengths of 10 ft, 14 ft, and 18 ft. This variety enables different arrangements tailored to the needs of different families. Each module serves important functions, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and living areas, ensuring compact and practical spaces. The modular approach simplifies assembly and flow, making it easy for residents to navigate their homes.

Construction Process

Assembly of the Modular Home aims to reduce construction time spent on site. Modules are prefabricated in a factory, where utilities are added before delivery. Once transported to the site, the modules are placed on prepared foundations and lifted into position with cranes. This method cuts down on disruption and speeds up the finishing process, meeting the demands of modern construction.

Community Integration

Incorporating ADUs into established neighborhoods allows for a variety of living arrangements. Homeowners can select from different pre-designed modules to suit their preferences. This flexibility not only accommodates individual family needs but also enhances the character of the community, contributing to a more connected and diverse living environment.

The design includes thoughtful connections between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing for layouts that adapt to the rhythm of daily life. Each home is designed to promote both privacy and community interaction, creating a welcoming atmosphere for residents.

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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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