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Rotatable Membranes and Modular Wood Framework for Nomadic Living

Authors:
Shirley Xue, Minna Yang
Rotatable Membranes and Modular Wood Framework for Nomadic Living

Project in-detail

The integration of rotatable membranes and a modular wood framework creates a flexible living space that meets the unique needs of nomadic communities in the grasslands of Inner Mongolia.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rotatable walls allow for customizable interior layouts to adapt living spaces to varying needs.
02
A double-layered insulated membrane enhances natural light and provides thermal comfort in extreme temperatures.
03
Modular wood framing ensures lightweight construction for easy transport and assembly.
04
Solar cell fabric motifs generate energy, supporting sustainable living practices.
05
Water access is integrated through nearby river routes, reducing the need for extensive storage.

NOMADIC HOME is a residence designed for nomadic communities in the grasslands of Inner Mongolia, China. It reinterprets the traditional yurt, aiming to improve functionality, comfort, and mobility. The design concept focuses on enhancing the living experience while simplifying transport.

Functional Adaptability

The design features rotatable walls that create flexible layouts. This allows families to adjust their living spaces according to their needs. By accommodating various configurations, NOMADIC HOME supports the social structures that are vital to nomadic life.

Sustainable Design Solutions

The project embraces sustainable practices through thoughtful material selection. A double-layered insulated membrane helps diffuse natural light inside while providing thermal insulation. This feature not only increases comfort but also makes the structure resilient to the significant temperature changes in the region.

Energy Efficiency and Water Management

Modular wood framing provides a strong yet lightweight structure, which facilitates easy transport. The design incorporates solar cell fabric to collect energy, catering to the electrical needs of the household. Water access is efficiently managed by utilizing nearby river routes, reducing the need for cumbersome water storage.

Innovative Interior Experience

The interior prioritizes natural light and comfort while also accommodating essential functions such as cooking, bathing, and sleeping. The arrangement of spaces encourages a functional living experience that respects the traditions of its users. The integration of rotatable walls allows for greater flexibility, encouraging a connection between the interior and the surrounding environment.

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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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