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Recycled Plastic Walls and Terracotta Units in a Sustainable Modular Home

Author:
Jonathan Avila
Recycled Plastic Walls and Terracotta Units in a Sustainable Modular Home

Project in-detail

Constructed with recycled plastic walls and terracotta ventilated units, this sustainable modular home emphasizes efficient resource utilization while providing a comfortable living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Recycled plastic structural walls reduce cement usage and carbon emissions.
02
Increased roof height enhances solar energy collection and rainwater harvesting.
03
Terracotta ventilated units improve thermal performance and add aesthetic value.
04
Interlocking brick system simplifies assembly and increases structural stability.
05
Functional zoning separates living and utility areas for enhanced efficiency.

The MICRO HOME project, located in Atlanta, GA, merges traditional knowledge with modern building techniques to create a sustainable living space. The design focuses on reducing carbon footprints while offering flexibility for different environments. By utilizing modular concepts, the home represents a practical approach to contemporary housing needs.

Design Concept
The overall design aims to produce a functional living area that is both adaptable and sustainable. It measures 3 meters by 8.33 meters and stands 7.90 meters tall. This height allows for better solar energy collection, as well as improved rainwater harvesting capabilities. The increased roof profile contributes to the building's efficiency, ensuring it can function independently from traditional utility services.

Materiality
The structure employs an interlocking system made from recycled plastic structural wall panels. This choice helps minimize the use of cement, which usually contributes to carbon emissions. By reducing reliance on traditional materials, the design promotes a more sustainable construction approach. Additionally, terracotta ventilated masonry units are used. These not only help regulate temperature but also enhance the home’s appearance, blending practicality with an eye for design.

Functional Layout
Inside, the layout clearly separates living areas from utility spaces. This thoughtful organization maximizes efficiency and creates a comfortable atmosphere for residents. The integration of solar panels, rainwater collection systems, and wind mechanical louvers reflects careful planning and a commitment to resource management. Overall, these elements ensure the home can meet modern sustainability standards while catering to daily living requirements.

Visually Integrated Design
Illustrations of the MICRO HOME provide insight into how each architectural element comes together. Floor plans and sectional views highlight the careful integration of all components. The design prioritizes interaction with nature and aesthetic coherence. The terracotta units, in particular, play a key role in cooling the facade while connecting the building visually to its environment. Each detail contributes to a cohesive space that emphasizes comfort and sustainability, serving as a modern example of thoughtful design in residential architecture.

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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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