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Sustainable Microhome Using Kingspan Panels and Photovoltaics for Emergency Housing

Sustainable Microhome Using Kingspan Panels and Photovoltaics for Emergency Housing
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Constructed with Kingspan QuadCore panels and integrated photovoltaic systems, this microhome offers a swift, adaptable solution for emergency housing while ensuring energy efficiency and effective insulation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed to accommodate 12 individuals, the microhome offers versatile living arrangements within a compact design.
02
Integrated photovoltaic panels ensure self-sufficiency in energy, enhancing sustainability in emergency settings.
03
Utilizes Kingspan QuadCore panels that provide high insulation while minimizing overall weight.
04
The modular layout promotes communal interaction while maintaining private spaces for residents.
05
Rapid assembly and disassembly allow for quick deployment in response to humanitarian needs.

**Overview**
The Twin Horizon Retreat is an innovative microhome designed to meet urgent humanitarian needs arising in crisis situations, including armed conflicts and natural disasters. This project focuses on delivering comfort and functionality to displaced individuals through adaptable and sustainable architectural solutions. The twin modular units provide a livable space for up to 12 occupants, offering essential amenities to support the basic needs of those in emergency scenarios.

**Spatial Configuration**
The retreat comprises two strategically arranged modules: Module A functions as sleeping and resting quarters, while Module B enhances the living experience with communal areas that include a kitchen, dining space, and bathroom facilities. This thoughtful spatial organization supports communal interaction while ensuring private settings are available for individual users. Flexible furniture solutions, such as fold-down tables and beds, allow for easy reconfiguration according to user needs and group sizes.

**Materiality and Sustainability**
A selection of durable materials is employed within the design to enhance functionality and environmental efficiency. Photovoltaic panels provide renewable energy, while Kingspan QuadCore® wall panels offer excellent insulation without adding significant weight. The structural integrity is supported by steel trusses and a combination of wooden beams, with a metal roof designed for effective rainwater collection. Additionally, the microhome’s components can be easily disassembled and reused, aligning with circular economy principles. The use of organic curtains and recyclable textiles also underscores a commitment to ecological integrity. This cohesive approach not only minimizes the carbon footprint but also contributes to more sustainable emergency architecture.

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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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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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