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Sustainable Living Through Modular Microhomes Built with Recycled Plastics and Green Roofs

Author:
Simonas Petrauskas
Sustainable Living Through Modular Microhomes Built with Recycled Plastics and Green Roofs

Project in-detail

Utilizing modular construction with upcycled materials and green roofs, the design creates flexible micro-housing units aimed at addressing urban living challenges.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes FSC-certified timber for structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates recycled plastics in various functional elements.
03
Features green roofs covered with sedum for improved insulation and biodiversity.
04
Employs a modular design allowing for flexible configurations and relocation.
05
Integrates communal gardens to enhance social interaction and community living.

### Overview

The Nomad housing project addresses the pressing need for affordable housing in Copenhagen, Denmark, amid ongoing urbanization challenges. Focused on sustainability and community engagement, the design seeks to create micro-housing solutions that are both functional and aesthetically considerate. This project embodies a forward-thinking response to a predicted housing shortage over the next 20-30 years, promoting flexibility and circularity in its spatial arrangement.

### Spatial Organization and Community Engagement

The architectural layout is strategically crafted to enhance community interaction while maintaining individual privacy. The arrangement features open communal spaces that encourage socialization alongside private 25 m² micro-homes, each accommodating two residents. This duality facilitates a cohesive living environment that promotes both personal sanctuary and communal living, thereby fostering a sense of belonging among residents.

### Materiality and Sustainable Practices

The Nomad project emphasizes environmentally responsible material choices. Key materials include locally sourced, FSC-certified structural timber for the framework, polycarbonate panels for durability, and recycled plastics for various fittings. Green initiatives extend to the landscaping, integrating gardens and trees to bolster biodiversity and create an inviting urban oasis. The design incorporates off-grid capabilities, with solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems enhancing resource management and sustainability.

The lifecycle approach adopted in this project underscores principles of reuse, repurpose, and recycle, highlighting its commitment to environmental stewardship. Adaptable units can serve multiple purposes throughout their lifespan, contributing to a circular economy that minimizes waste and optimizes resource utilization.

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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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