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Shipping Container Dwelling with QuadCore Insulation and Solar Energy Integration

Authors:
Nicolas Pöhlmann, Andrii Nadtochyi
Shipping Container Dwelling with QuadCore Insulation and Solar Energy Integration

Project in-detail

Constructed from a shipping container with QuadCore insulation and enhanced by solar energy systems, this mobile dwelling offers a sustainable living solution tailored for adaptability in various environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed from a modified shipping container for mobility and ease of transport.
02
Incorporates QuadCore insulation for enhanced thermal efficiency and energy performance.
03
Equipped with solar panels to promote self-sufficiency in energy consumption.
04
Adaptable interior layout with movable walls for multifunctional living spaces.
05
Features a rainwater collection system to support sustainable living practices.

### Overview

"Solere" is an architectural project designed to accommodate modern lifestyles that prioritize flexibility and sustainability. Located in various settings, from desert landscapes to waterfronts, the structure aims to provide a dynamic living environment that adapts to its users' diverse needs. With a footprint of 24.7 square meters, Solere utilizes a modified shipping container as its core, housing functional spaces such as a kitchen, bathroom, and an adaptable living area.

### Design and Materiality

#### Architectural Features

The structure's design employs prefabricated panels from KINGSPAN, including QuadCore AWPC LEC Wall Panels and QuadCore K600RW LEC Roof Panels, contributing to a lightweight and playful form. This configuration maximizes solar gain and rainwater collection, supporting a sustainable lifestyle. The modular components allow for effective transportation and assembly, enabling relocation by truck or ship, which is essential for a transient living experience.

#### Functional Materials

The material selection enhances both functionality and aesthetics. Key materials incorporated into the design include:
- QuadCore AWPC LEC Wall Panels
- QuadCore K600RW LEC Roof Panels
- TreadLite V-View 19 Panels
- 2000L Slimline Tanks
- Skydome Tublite Skylights

These materials work together to create a durable framework while promoting energy efficiency and environmental responsiveness.

### Spatial Organization

#### Interior Layout

The interior layout is purposefully arranged to facilitate various levels of privacy. An entrance at the rear grants access to the bathroom while delineating public and private areas. The design fosters a multifunctional living space that connects seamlessly to the kitchen, encouraging social interaction alongside personal space.

Key functional areas within the interior include:
1. **Kitchen Area:** Central hub for nourishment and sustenance.
2. **Bathroom Facilities:** Conveniently located adjacent to private spaces for essential hygiene.
3. **Adaptive Living Space:** A flexible area that contrasts public and private realms, promoting a dynamic living experience.

### User Engagement

The project enhances user experiences through flexible space configurations and interaction with the external environment. Features such as movable walls and furniture, including a hidden shelf and wardrobe, enable personalization of living arrangements based on individual preferences. The design's adaptability allows it to function effectively in varying climates, with innovative elements such as openable wings for ventilation and thermal energy conservation.

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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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