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Rotatable Modules and Bioconcrete Structure for Sustainable Living

Authors:
Christian Schmid, Marina Makarevich
Rotatable Modules and Bioconcrete Structure for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

The integration of rotatable modules and bioconcrete in this living space optimizes energy efficiency and promotes sustainability while providing a flexible environment for residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rotatable modules allow for customized interior layouts based on sunlight exposure.
02
Bioconcrete enhances air quality by supporting plant growth on vertical surfaces.
03
Energy is generated through a combined use of solar panels and wind turbines.
04
The design accommodates both solid ground and water, offering versatile placement options.
05
Integrated bioreactors convert algae into biogas for renewable energy supply.

The design features a multifunctional living space focused on adaptability and energy efficiency. Located in a setting that accommodates both solid ground and water, the building consists of three rotatable modules. These modules allow residents to tailor their living environment based on their needs. The overall concept centers around the idea of sustainability, making use of innovative energy strategies while providing a flexible and dynamic interior.

Energy Generation

The building incorporates solar modules on the roof. These can be adjusted to capture sunlight effectively throughout the day. In addition, the modules can function as rotor blades, utilizing wind to generate energy through a central generator. This combination of solar and wind energy reflects a strong commitment to sustainable living practices.

Bioreactor Facade

Vertical elements of the facade feature surfaces designed for bioreactors, where algae can thrive. Using solar energy, these algae produce biomass that is converted into biogas. This biogas fulfills some of the building's energy requirements through a fuel cell. This aspect of the design emphasizes the integration of biological processes, contributing significantly to the building's energy sustainability.

Technical Infrastructure

At the core of the building is a technical room, which houses essential components for energy storage, including batteries, a generator, and a fuel cell. This centralized arrangement helps manage the energy produced by the building efficiently, ensuring that it powers both living spaces and water heating systems. This infrastructure promotes a responsive and effective energy management system.

The choice of bioconcrete as the primary structural material supports plant growth. The design encourages the growth of moss, lichen, and mushrooms, all of which improve air quality and insulation. The use of wood in other parts of the structure complements these efforts, highlighting a focus on sustainability and a connection to nature in the overall 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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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