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Sustainable Living Through QuadCore Insulated Panels and Versatile Plywood Solutions

Authors:
Hugo Marian Louis Pousset, Houda Iddihoum
Sustainable Living Through QuadCore Insulated Panels and Versatile Plywood Solutions

Project in-detail

Constructed using QuadCore insulated panels and versatile plywood, this microhome exemplifies sustainable design principles while offering functional living spaces that prioritize efficiency and environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using QuadCore insulated panels to enhance energy efficiency.
02
Features a rainwater collection system with a capacity of 1100 liters.
03
Employs versatile plywood for multipurpose furniture design.
04
Incorporates double glazing for improved thermal performance.
05
Utilizes a bioclimatic design for natural ventilation and light optimization.

## Overview

The Lagom Cabin exemplifies a modern approach to sustainable microhousing, designed to accommodate contemporary living needs while adhering to the Swedish "Lagom" philosophy, which emphasizes moderation and balance. Located in contexts that can benefit from various climatic conditions, the project seeks to minimize its ecological footprint through thoughtful design strategies that prioritize functionality, comfort, and a connection to nature.

## Spatial Configuration and User-Centric Design

The architectural layout features a rectangular prism measuring 27 meters in length and 5 meters in width, optimizing the usability of the living space. Essential areas include a combined living space that serves as both a bedroom and office, a compact kitchen designed for efficient storage and laundry use, and a minimalist bathroom that incorporates the necessary utilities. The design also integrates multipurpose furniture, primarily constructed from plywood, offering flexibility for various activities such as dining, relaxing, and working. Each furniture piece is crafted to allow dual functionality, aligning with the minimalist ethos of the cabin.

## Sustainable Innovations and Material Selection

The project employs a range of sustainable materials and technologies, including Kingston QuadCore panels, birch plywood for internal structures, and double-glazed doors to improve energy efficiency. The cabin is equipped with an off-grid solar energy system utilizing flat flexible solar panels and features a rainwater collection system with a 1100-liter tank, enabling self-sufficiency. Bioclimatic design considerations, such as a sloped roof for optimal water collection and natural ventilation via crossed openings, enhance internal climate control. The careful selection of materials and innovative systems underscores the cabin’s commitment to environmental sustainability while fostering a harmonious living environment.

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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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