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Sustainable Prefabrication Using Anodized Aluminum and Thermal Insulation in Modular Living Spaces

Authors:
Sebastiaan Leenknegt, Wieland Wuyts
Sustainable Prefabrication Using Anodized Aluminum and Thermal Insulation in Modular Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Comprising prefabricated units crafted from anodized aluminum and enhanced with thermal insulation, this modular living space offers a sustainable solution for contemporary residential and recreational needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Structures use prefabricated modules for efficient assembly and transport.
02
Anodized aluminum cladding enhances durability and minimizes maintenance.
03
Thermal insulation is integrated within the panels for energy efficiency.
04
The geometric form maximizes natural light and connection to the landscape.
05
Flexible interior layouts accommodate diverse living arrangements and functions.

## Project Overview

The IcosaCabin is a contemporary architectural design that draws inspiration from the geometric properties of the icosahedron, a polyhedron with triangular faces. This innovative building kit concept is designed to create adaptable living spaces suitable for a variety of uses, including residential, recreational, and communal functions. The design emphasizes advanced geometry to optimize spatial efficiency and foster a strong relationship with the surrounding natural environment.

### Modular Configuration and Sustainability

The IcosaCabin features a modular design that allows individual units to be interconnected for expanded configurations. This adaptability supports diverse layouts for essential spaces such as kitchens, sleeping areas, and communal zones. In terms of sustainability, the integration of photovoltaic solar panels enables the collection of renewable energy, reinforcing a commitment to environmentally responsible living. The design also incorporates intentional geometric shapes that enhance structural integrity while promoting an aesthetic that blends with wooded or lakeside settings.

### Material Selection and Construction Efficiency

The construction of the IcosaCabin utilizes a range of materials selected for their performance and sustainability attributes. Anodized aluminum serves as the external cladding, combining lightweight qualities with durability and low maintenance. Extruded aluminum profiles facilitate structural requirements and simplify assembly, while polyurethane insulation layers enhance thermal efficiency within the panels. Interior finishes are achieved with plywood, providing warmth without compromising structural integrity.

Each cabin is composed of prefabricated components that streamline the assembly process. The use of panel connections allows for rapid construction and easy disassembly, promoting reusability and ensuring sustainability. Generously sized glazed windows optimize natural light, while thoughtfully placed openings enhance ventilation, creating a comfortable interior that accommodates various user needs through flexible layouts and modular furnishings.

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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
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