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Reclaimed Concrete Modules with Natural Wood Accents for Sustainable Community Living

Author:
Isabella Nieling
Reclaimed Concrete Modules with Natural Wood Accents for Sustainable Community Living

Project in-detail

Comprising modular units crafted from recycled concrete and enhanced with natural wood elements, this design offers flexible living solutions that promote community resilience and sustainable practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units are constructed from locally sourced recycled concrete, minimizing environmental impact.
02
The design incorporates natural wood elements for aesthetic warmth while maintaining structural integrity.
03
A flexible assembly method allows residents to adapt layout configurations to their preferences.
04
Community hubs are integrated into the design, fostering social interaction among residents.
05
Large windows optimize natural light and improve energy efficiency within the living spaces.

## Project Overview

"Brighter Blocks" is designed to provide modular and sustainable living solutions aimed at enhancing community resilience in post-disaster scenarios. Located in an area susceptible to natural disasters, the project employs lightweight, flexible building modules that can be efficiently assembled by residents. The integration of environmentally friendly materials within the design framework underscores the commitment to energy efficiency and social interaction.

## Modular Design and Flexibility

The project implements a modular design framework that consists of a structural frame complemented by prefabricated building blocks. This arrangement simplifies the construction process, allowing residents to actively participate in assembling their homes with accessible materials. The modularity facilitates diverse interior configurations, accommodating individual needs and community preferences while maintaining structural integrity.

## Community Engagement

A notable feature of the project is the emphasis on community involvement throughout the construction process. By encouraging residents to partake in building, the design fosters social cohesion and instills a sense of ownership in the living environment. This participatory approach strengthens neighborly relationships and enhances community bonding, promoting a supportive atmosphere within the living space.

## Material Selection

The materials utilized in "Brighter Blocks" are integral to its sustainability and functionality:

- **Wood**: Used as a primary structural element, providing warmth and aesthetic appeal.
- **Steel**: Embodied within the structural frame to enhance strength and longevity.
- **Recycled Concrete**: Forms the basis of the prefabricated building blocks, emphasizing waste reduction and environmental responsibility.
- **Rubber**: Facilitates ease of assembly for components such as seals and coverings.
- **Grain Granulate**: Serves as an insulation material, improving indoor climate control and energy efficiency.
- **Cement Plaster**: Applied as a finishing surface that provides moisture resistance and aesthetic quality.

This careful selection of materials aligns with contemporary sustainability trends and the project's objective of minimizing environmental impact.

## Public Spaces and Community Interaction

The design incorporates communal hubs that serve multiple functions, enhancing interaction among residents. Key features include:

- **Community Hubs**: Centrally located areas designated for events, gatherings, and commercial activities, promoting social engagement.
- **Green Spaces**: Landscaped areas surrounding the residential blocks that enhance aesthetic appeal while contributing to biodiversity and providing recreational opportunities.

The integration of these spaces encourages vibrant community interaction and supports a sustainable living environment.

## Future Applications

The modular nature of the project allows for potential applications in the renovation of existing buildings. By incorporating adaptable components, the design can revitalize older structures while preserving their integrity. This approach addresses urban housing challenges and showcases scalable solutions for various climates and contexts, underscoring its versatility and relevance.

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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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