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Recycled Aluminum Cladding and Microbial Energy Systems in Adaptable Residential Living

Authors:
Ludovica Marconi, Stefano Vitale
Recycled Aluminum Cladding and Microbial Energy Systems in Adaptable Residential Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating recycled aluminum cladding and advanced microbial energy systems, this adaptable residential solution redefines sustainable living while addressing the need for community-oriented spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates recycled aluminum cladding for enhanced durability and sustainability.
02
Features advanced microbial fuel cells for efficient energy management.
03
Utilizes modular construction methods for rapid assembly and flexibility.
04
Integrates large polycarbonate windows to maximize natural light and ventilation.
05
Promotes communal living with designated shared spaces for residents.

### Project Overview

DE-COMPO-DWELL is designed to address contemporary housing shortages while emphasizing sustainability and community connectivity. Located within urban settings in the United Kingdom and rural areas rich in natural resources, the project responds to pressing environmental concerns and social challenges. Its conceptual framework integrates historical perspectives on habitation with modern sustainable practices to create living environments that facilitate efficient resource management and meaningful social interaction.

### Sustainable Assembly and Material Innovation

The architectural strategy employs a prefabricated modular structure that significantly reduces construction waste and allows for rapid assembly. This flexibility accommodates varying occupant needs, fostering adaptable living spaces. The material palette includes recycled aluminum cladding, pre-fabricated wooden components, insulated wall panels, and polycarbonate windows, promoting both aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency. Additionally, the integration of microbial fuel cells exemplifies an innovative approach to energy management.

### Spatial Configuration and Community Integration

The spatial organization emphasizes a fluid connection between indoor and outdoor areas, enhancing natural light and cross-ventilation through expansive windows and sliding doors. The design incorporates various zones—such as day, focus, and night spaces—responding to the dynamic routines of inhabitants. Furthermore, shared communal areas are strategically integrated with private living spaces, promoting social interaction and resource sharing as a response to the housing crisis. This layout reflects a commitment to fostering community engagement while accommodating individual living needs.

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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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