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Sustainable Living Through Modular Units with Thermal Efficiency and Polycarbonate Cladding

Authors:
Blake Joseph Hageman, Andrew Fan Jiang
Sustainable Living Through Modular Units with Thermal Efficiency and Polycarbonate Cladding

Project in-detail

Utilizing QuadCore panels and polycarbonate cladding, the design integrates modularity and sustainability to create adaptable living spaces that support community-oriented lifestyles.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes QuadCore panels for superior thermal insulation and energy efficiency.
02
Features polycarbonate roofing that maximizes natural light while ensuring ventilation.
03
Incorporates flexible interior layouts designed for multifunctional use.
04
Surrounds units with native landscaping to enhance biodiversity and reduce maintenance.
05
Promotes community interaction through close-knit modular arrangements.

### Project Overview

GROW HOUSE is designed as a modular housing solution aimed at addressing the pressing challenges of suburban densification. Located in suburban neighborhoods with significant housing demand, this prototype is tailored to accommodate the shifting demographics, particularly among younger adults seeking adaptable living spaces. The project focuses on creating a multi-family environment that encourages community engagement while providing versatile residential options.

### Spatial Strategy and Configuration

The architecture features distinct building configurations, offering flexibility for diverse uses. With two primary layouts, one serves as a permanent dwelling while the other acts as a seasonal gathering or workspace. This flexibility allows residents to adjust their living environments according to their needs, supporting both privacy and communal interaction. The internal design includes expandable spaces, a fully equipped kitchen with integrated appliances, and multifunctional furniture to maximize usability in various living scenarios.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Material selection is a key aspect of GROW HOUSE, emphasizing sustainability and energy efficiency. The structure employs KINGSPAN QuadCore LEC Roof Panels and PWAWP Wall Panels, which provide thermal efficiency and durability while minimizing weight. Features such as transparent polycarbonate roofing improve natural light and ventilation within the units. Sustainable landscaping incorporates native plants, fostering ecological connections and enhancing the aesthetic quality of shared outdoor areas. Rainwater management through integrated gutters and energy self-sufficiency through rooftop solar panels further contribute to the project's environmental goals, aiming for reduction in both carbon footprint and energy costs.

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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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