Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Transforming Abandoned Rvs with Steel Framing and Polycarbonate Panels for Sustainable Living

Authors:
Yang Li, Yujiang Li, Yinglin Chen, Christina Chu
Transforming Abandoned Rvs with Steel Framing and Polycarbonate Panels for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Abandoned RVs in Fujian are repurposed into sustainable living spaces through the innovative use of steel framing and polycarbonate panels, offering a modern solution to housing needs in rural communities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Abandoned RVs converted into livable spaces in rural Fujian.
02
Increased window-to-wall ratio maximizes natural light.
03
Modular design allows for future customization and adaptability.
04
Lightweight structures with detachable components ensure mobility.
05
Use of polycarbonate panels enhances transparency and openness.

"Revival" focuses on the transformation of around 30 abandoned RVs and vans in Changting County, Fujian, China. Designed to serve as functional living spaces, it takes a practical approach to address urban decay and sustainable living by reusing neglected vehicles. The project not only repurposes these structures but also aims to invigorate the surrounding rural community.

Design Concept

The core idea revolves around sustainability and resourcefulness. The design reclaims vehicles that have run their course or have been left behind due to financial struggles. By turning these abandoned RVs into homes, it minimizes waste and highlights the potential for innovative living solutions in the context of rural revitalization.

Integration of Light and Space

A prominent feature of the design is the increase in the window-to-wall ratio. Larger windows allow more natural light to fill the interiors. This not only enhances the living environment but also establishes a connection to the outdoor landscape. The influx of light creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, contributing to energy efficiency and comfort for the residents.

Modularity and Customization

Replaceable modules play a crucial role in the overall design. These components are both prefabricated and assembled on-site, allowing for personalization of living spaces. The ability to adapt the layout supports various lifestyles and changing needs, making the homes versatile and practical. This approach encourages a dynamic living environment where arrangements can be modified as required.

Mobility and Structure

Mobility is another essential aspect of Revival. The design incorporates lightweight structures and detachable modules, enabling the RVs to be moved if necessary. This provides flexibility, especially in rural settings where land use and community dynamics can shift.

The choice of polycarbonate panels enhances transparency and lightness. This contributes to a sense of openness within the homes. Steel framing adds durability and stability, ensuring that the remodeled RVs can support different living functions effectively.

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
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
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