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SIPs and Solar Panels in Modular Housing for Park Rangers

Authors:
Hiroki Mishima, Quentin Puiseux
SIPs and Solar Panels in Modular Housing for Park Rangers

Project in-detail

Modular cabins constructed with structural insulated panels and equipped with solar energy systems provide sustainable housing for park rangers, seamlessly blending functionality with environmental stewardship in remote national park landscapes.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular construction allows for easy transport and assembly in remote locations.
02
Cabins are designed using structural insulated panels to enhance energy efficiency.
03
Integration of solar panels on the roof promotes self-sufficiency in energy use.
04
The use of pallets as a modular base minimizes construction waste and costs.
05
Layouts accommodate both individual park rangers and their families for community living.
The Ranger Cabins project is an innovative architectural solution designed to address the housing needs of park rangers in the United States. Set within the context of national parks, the design serves a dual purpose of providing accommodation for rangers and their families while promoting a closer relationship with the natural environment. The project encompasses a modular approach, allowing for flexibility and adaptability in various park settings, including forests, deserts, and mountainous regions.

Functionally, the Ranger Cabins are engineered to support the diverse activities of park rangers, who manage and protect natural landscapes while educating the public. By offering a comfortable living space equipped with essential amenities, the cabins enhance the quality of life for rangers and their families, making it a viable long-term solution for those dedicated to conservation efforts.

The architectural design of the Ranger Cabins is characterized by its straightforward rectangular form, which optimizes the use of space and materials. This simplicity facilitates efficient construction and assembly, aligning well with the project's ethos of sustainability. The use of Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) not only provides excellent thermal insulation but also reduces energy consumption, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility. The exterior features wood siding, which both blends with the natural surroundings and adds durability to the structure, while solar panels incorporated into the roof cater to energy needs, fostering independence from conventional power sources.

Unique to this project is the modular design approach, which allows each cabin to be prefabricated off-site and transported as a complete unit. This process streamlines construction, reduces site disruption, and enables quick deployment in remote areas. The logistics of using shipping containers for transportation illustrate a practical solution that overcomes the challenges of accessing rugged terrains typically found in national parks.

Detailed architectural plans reveal thoughtful spatial arrangements within the cabins, accommodating necessary functions such as two bedrooms, a bathroom, an office, and common living spaces. This efficient design reflects a deep understanding of the daily routines that park rangers may experience, ensuring that the cabins meet both functional and personal needs. In addition, the use of materials like pallets serves as an innovative base for each unit, highlighting the project’s emphasis on sustainability and cost-effectiveness.

The Ranger Cabins project represents a forward-thinking approach to architectural design, emphasizing modularity and sustainability while meeting practical housing demands. By engaging with local communities during both the construction process and eventual occupancy, the project fosters a sense of shared responsibility and connection to the landscapes being preserved.

For those interested in exploring the intricacies of the design further, a detailed presentation of architectural plans, sections, and overall architectural ideas can provide valuable insights. The project encapsulates a meaningful dialogue between architecture and nature, highlighting the critical role of built environments in supporting conservation efforts. Readers are encouraged to delve into the specifics presented in the project documentation to gain a comprehensive understanding of its design and function.
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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