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Sustainable Microhomes Constructed with Cardboard Tubes and Metal Framework

Author:
Maria Tilvescu-nicula
Sustainable Microhomes Constructed with Cardboard Tubes and Metal Framework

Project in-detail

Constructed from lightweight cardboard tubes and reinforced with metal frameworks, these transportable microhomes offer flexible, sustainable living solutions in urban settings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes lightweight cardboard tubes as structural elements for efficiency and reduced transport costs.
02
Features modular design allowing multiple configurations to adapt to occupant needs.
03
Incorporates solar panels for off-grid energy solutions, enhancing sustainability.
04
Emphasizes community integration through shared communal spaces within the layout.
05
Employs bio-based epoxy for waterproofing, ensuring environmental responsibility.

## Architectural Design Report: Matchbox

### Overview
Matchbox is a modular housing solution developed to address urgent needs for affordable and sustainable living spaces, particularly in emergency and crisis situations. Designed for rapid deployment, this project integrates flexible, transportable microhomes that focus on community integration while utilizing eco-friendly materials and construction techniques.

### Modular Structure and Scalability
The Matchbox units consist of prefabricated modules measuring 2.5 x 5 x 1 meters, allowing for a variety of living configurations suitable for different family sizes or communal arrangements. The use of a modular design facilitates efficient assembly and disassembly, promoting adaptability to varying site conditions. The system's scalable nature supports configurations from single units to larger community settings, effectively responding to the needs of occupants in diverse contexts.

### Sustainable Materiality
Key structural components include lightweight and durable cardboard tubes, treated to ensure a lifespan of up to twenty years, and rigid metal frames that provide structural integrity and resilience against environmental conditions. The homes are further enhanced by waterproof bio-based epoxy coatings that contribute to their longevity. Sustainable features such as off-grid solar power systems and rainwater harvesting capabilities reduce reliance on external resources. Thermal efficiency is achieved through multiple layers of insulation made from environmentally friendly materials, ensuring comfort and minimizing ecological impact.

This design approach not only addresses immediate housing needs but also prioritizes sustainability and user responsiveness in its execution.

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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

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