Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Tension Structures Crafted from Fiberglass and Steel for Sustainable Emergency Housing

Author:
Jacee Shae Hammons
Tension Structures Crafted from Fiberglass and Steel for Sustainable Emergency Housing

Project in-detail

Crafted from a resilient fiberglass shell and supported by a tensioned steel framework, these portable units provide efficient and sustainable housing solutions for communities affected by natural disasters.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using a lightweight fiberglass shell to enhance mobility and assembly.
02
Features a tensioned steel framework that provides structural stability in challenging environments.
03
Equipped with integrated photovoltaic panels for energy independence.
04
Utilizes a rainwater collection system to address water needs on-site.
05
Designed for flexible interior space usage, accommodating multiple functions in a compact area.

**Project Overview**
Located in McCall, Idaho, the TENSION project presents a contemporary approach to disaster response housing, designed specifically for individuals and families affected by natural disasters. The design prioritizes portability, sustainability, and affordability, aiming to provide immediate and long-term solutions to those facing housing crises due to environmental events.

**Structural Composition and Material Choices**
The primary structure features a steel frame reinforced by silicone-coated fiberglass, which ensures both durability and lightweight portability suitable for rapid deployment across diverse terrains. The roof and walls utilize fiberglass fabric, selected for its resistance to environmental pressures and aesthetic qualities. A system of tension cables stabilizes the structure, allowing for a distinctive architectural expression characterized by flowing curves. Inside, the layout incorporates a flexible living space, encompassing a kitchen, multifunctional living/sleeping area with a hammock bed, and an integrated dining space.

**Sustainability and Utility Features**
TENSION incorporates various sustainable systems, including photovoltaic panels for energy generation, reducing reliance on external power sources. Additionally, a rainwater collection system features a cistern that manages water resources effectively, addressing essential utility needs. Movable fabric curtains serve as partitions, providing both privacy and natural light, further enhancing the functionality of the interior spaces. The use of wood slat flooring with wool insulation balances comfort and thermal performance, contributing to overall livability.

The project excels in its adaptability for rapid assembly and disassembly, facilitating emergency responses. Its design encourages community integration by allowing units to be clustered, promoting social interaction among residents.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy