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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.
DE-COMPO-DWELL represents an advanced approach to residential architecture, characterized by sustainable building practices and flexible living solutions. This project emphasizes modularity, allowing for rapid assembly and adaptability to various environments. The design prioritizes the intersection of community living and efficient resource usage, making it relevant in the context of contemporary housing challenges.

The primary function of DE-COMPO-DWELL is to provide adaptable living spaces that can be tailored to the needs of occupants. This is achieved through a prefabricated structure, which enhances the efficiency of the construction process while minimizing waste. The project is designed with an intentional flow that connects indoor and outdoor spaces, promoting natural light and cross-ventilation. This connection seeks to engage residents with their surroundings, reducing the psychological barriers often found in urban living environments.

Sustainable Material Use and Innovation

A unique aspect of DE-COMPO-DWELL is its commitment to material sustainability. The project utilizes a range of recycled and resource-efficient materials, including recycled aluminum sheets for the exterior cladding, prefabricated wooden structures, and high-efficiency insulated wall panels. These choices not only contribute to the project's aesthetic but also enhance its energy efficiency. The integration of polycarbonate windows facilitates natural illumination, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting during the day. This careful selection of materials underscores the project's holistic approach to sustainability in architecture.

Adaptability and Community Integration

Another distinctive feature of DE-COMPO-DWELL is its modular design, which allows for varying configurations in response to the needs of different users. The design encourages communal living through shared spaces that facilitate social interaction among residents. This approach addresses the growing need for community-oriented housing solutions. The phased construction process, documented in the architectural plans, showcases an organized workflow that emphasizes efficiency in building, allowing for quick assembly while maintaining quality standards. Like other architecture projects, DE-COMPO-DWELL’s adaptability is critical for meeting diverse living requirements in various geographical contexts.

For those interested in exploring DE-COMPO-DWELL in greater detail, the project presentation offers architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that illustrate the design's innovative approaches further. Engaging with these materials can provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that define the project and its significance in modern residential architecture.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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