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Sustainable Micro Homes Crafted from Mycelium and Recycled Materials

Authors:
Aapo Wihersaari, Eero Koivu
Sustainable Micro Homes Crafted from Mycelium and Recycled Materials
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Crafted primarily from mycelium and recycled materials, this sustainable micro home addresses the challenges of the Finnish climate while offering versatile living solutions in a compact footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mycelium is the primary building material, providing natural insulation and sustainability.
02
The design incorporates recycled materials for reduced environmental impact.
03
Modular construction allows for quick assembly and flexible living configurations.
04
Adapted to withstand Finland's extreme weather conditions with robust features.
05
The project emphasizes compostability, supporting a circular design approach.

"FUNGI FINLANDIA" is an architectural endeavor that focuses on sustainability and adaptability through the use of mycelium. Located in Finland, the design acknowledges the country’s diverse climate and aligns itself with the natural processes found in organic growth. By reflecting the lifecycle of fungi, the project presents a concept that interweaves nature with residential needs, aiming for a practical and environmentally friendly solution.

Material Properties

Mycelium serves as the main building material, valued for its thermal insulation capabilities and its resistance to fire, water, and mold. This choice allows for a carbon-negative approach, helping to create a fully compostable structure. In addition, recycled building materials are included to further reduce environmental impact and underline the project’s commitment to sustainability. Together, these materials support a construction methodology that prioritizes ecological mindfulness.

Modular Design Concept

The design embraces modularity through the MicroHome concept, which promotes flexibility in how spaces can be used. The layout is organized into distinct areas, including living spaces, kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Each zone is designed to maximize utility while retaining a comfortable scale. This careful arrangement facilitates various living arrangements, making the most of the available space in an efficient manner.

Environmental Adaptability

The building's design directly addresses the challenges posed by Finland's climate. With considerations for heavy rain, high humidity, freezing temperatures, and rapid temperature changes, the architectural approach ensures durability and resilience. This focus on adaptability informs not just the choice of materials but also the overall form and functionalities of the building.

One notable aspect of the design is the careful detailing within the modular components, which allows for straightforward assembly and future adjustments if needed. This element of adaptability emphasizes the connection to natural processes, echoing the way fungi work with their environment, promoting a seamless integration between architecture and nature.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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Eligibility Open to all
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