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Steel Framework and Insulation Combine for Flexible Modular Living

Authors:
Barbara Stallone, Francisco Silva
Steel Framework and Insulation Combine for Flexible Modular Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with a robust steel framework and advanced insulation, the modular units deliver customizable and sustainable living solutions that adapt to individual needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for continuous reconfiguration to meet changing needs.
02
Integrated self-sustaining systems collect rainwater and harness solar energy.
03
A minimalist steel structure enhances durability while reducing production costs.
04
Insulation and waterproofing features ensure year-round comfort.
05
Interior customization resembles a furniture catalogue, promoting personalized spaces.

The recent design utilizes a modular approach in residential living. Situated in a contemporary urban environment, the concept focuses on adaptability and personal expression. By transforming domestic spaces into modules that can be added, moved, or replaced, the design fosters flexible living environments. This thoughtful approach challenges conventional ideas surrounding permanence in a home, suggesting that residences should be able to grow and change over time based on the needs of their inhabitants.

Modularity and Adaptability

At its core, this design emphasizes modularity. Each unit acts as an independent module, encouraging occupants to modify their spaces to reflect their personalities. This encourages a shift away from traditional homes that resist change. Instead, the design allows for continuous reassessment and renewal of living environments that can align with advances in technology and evolving social norms.

Structural Composition

The modules consist of a limited set of components that allow various configurations. A steel framework provides a solid base for each unit, ensuring strength and longevity. Key finishes, such as insulation and waterproofing, help maintain a comfortable interior and protect against weather-related issues. This simple yet effective structure enhances production efficiency and reduces costs, enabling broader accessibility to these modular homes.

Sustainability and Self-Sufficiency

Self-sustaining features are integral to the design. Systems for collecting water and harnessing solar energy are incorporated, addressing the need for environmentally conscious living. The flexible nature of the modules allows them to function within established communities or as standalone units. This focus on sustainability contributes to a larger conversation about responsible urbanization and the efficient use of resources.

A key aspect of the design is the customization of interiors. Like choosing items from a catalogue, residents can configure their spaces according to their preferences and needs. This creates a unique living experience that reflects individual identities. Each modular unit encourages various arrangements, allowing residents to actively engage in shaping their homes in ways that are meaningful to them.

In the arrangement of these modules, the combination of functional systems and personalized spaces creates a distinct experience in domestic living, resulting in a design that remains open to change and responsive to the needs of its users.

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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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