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Relocatable Trapezoidal Microhomes with Off-Grid Energy Solutions

Authors:
Johnathan Li, Louis Marchini, Daniel Lay
Relocatable Trapezoidal Microhomes with Off-Grid Energy Solutions

Project in-detail

Built from trapezoidal microhomes designed for relocation, the off-grid dwellings incorporate energy-generating turbines and water collection systems, offering a sustainable living solution for residents facing climate change challenges.
5 key facts about this project
01
Microhomes are constructed from two trapezoidal prisms to optimize space and adaptability.
02
Each unit features an adjustable blind system for enhanced privacy control.
03
Off-grid energy turbines are integrated within the hull to generate renewable power.
04
Water collection tanks are built into the design, ensuring self-sufficiency for residents.
05
Recharge stations are strategically located along migration routes to support mobility.

"Typhoon 2087" focuses on creating sustainable housing solutions in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, where climate change poses significant risks. As sea levels rise and natural disasters become more frequent, the design addresses the urgent need for flexible living spaces. The concept centers on relocatable off-grid boat housing, enabling residents to adapt to environmental changes while maintaining a connection to their community.

Microhome Design

The design features a microhome made of two trapezoidal prisms. These prisms are arranged to provide distinct functional areas. One module contains essential spaces such as the kitchen and bathroom, making them readily accessible. The other module offers a flexible living space that can be reconfigured as needed. An adjustable blind system gives residents control over privacy, creating a comfortable environment that can adapt to various situations.

Sustainability Features

Sustainable living is a key aspect of the design. The microhome incorporates off-grid systems that include water collection tanks and energy-collecting turbines integrated into the boat's hull. This setup allows the dwelling to operate independently from conventional utilities. Such features not only promote self-sufficiency but also minimize the environmental footprint of the housing solution.

Mobility and Infrastructure

The design considers the importance of mobility. Recharge stations are positioned along migration routes in major cities and towns. This infrastructure supports moving residents by providing vital resources, making the living solution practical and accessible. The thoughtful placement of these stations reflects an understanding of community needs in areas affected by climate change.

The project also emphasizes the role of the Mekong River as a migration route. This geographical consideration enhances the practicality of the boat housing and ties the design to broader issues of mobility and adaptation to urban challenges. Residents can navigate their surroundings more easily, allowing for a connection to their environment and community, emphasizing resilience in design.

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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

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