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Sustainable Urban Infill with FSC-Certified Timber and Rainwater Harvesting Solutions

Authors:
Chin hooi man , Yap Yin Ying , Looi Yuet Si
Sustainable Urban Infill with FSC-Certified Timber and Rainwater Harvesting Solutions

Project in-detail

Incorporating FSC-certified timber and innovative rainwater harvesting, this urban infill solution maximizes compact living spaces while fostering community connectivity through modular housing units.
5 key facts about this project
01
FSC-certified timber is used throughout the construction for enhanced sustainability.
02
A plug-in system allows for flexible expansion or reduction of housing units.
03
Rainwater harvesting systems minimize water consumption and promote eco-efficiency.
04
Large, strategically placed windows optimize natural ventilation and light.
05
Shared community spaces are integrated to foster resident interaction and connectivity.

## Overview

Located in Lebuh Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, this architectural intervention addresses the complexities of urban infill in densely populated areas. The project aims to optimize underutilized urban spaces by transforming them into functional residential units. Focusing on flexibility and sustainability, the design seeks to enhance community dynamics and contribute to local urban vibrancy.

## Modular and Adaptive Design

The project employs a modular design strategy that accommodates varying lot sizes and conditions. Central to this approach is a customizable unit system, where residents can tailor modules according to specific preferences and budgetary constraints. This promotes personalization while ensuring structural integrity. A plug-in/plug-out mechanism allows for the dynamic assembly and disassembly of units, facilitating diverse living arrangements to adapt to the changing needs of residents. Various assembly techniques, such as ground attachment and dual-unit connections, enable seamless integration into the existing urban fabric.

### Sustainable Material Choices

Material selection plays a crucial role in the project's sustainability objectives. The use of FSC-certified timber frames offers lightweight strength while providing thermal insulation. Aluminum-framed windows enhance energy efficiency and contribute to the aesthetic of the units. Insulated KingSpan external cladding protects the structure while optimizing energy use in the hot and humid climate. Additionally, the incorporation of solar panels promotes renewable energy, while a rainwater harvesting system underscores the commitment to environmental stewardship. Reinforced concrete slabs ensure robust foundations for the modular components, enhancing durability and sustainability.

This design initiative reflects an integration of contemporary living needs with cultural and environmental considerations, aimed at fostering a resilient urban landscape.

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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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