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Translucent Polycarbonate Panels and Modular Timber Design For Sustainable Temporary Housing Solutions

Authors:
Nouras Hamdan, Nour Hamdan, Siavash Dadpour, Bertalan Kaczian
Translucent Polycarbonate Panels and Modular Timber Design For Sustainable Temporary Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

Modular timber construction and translucent polycarbonate panels combine to create a flexible housing solution designed to provide immediate shelter for displaced individuals in post-disaster scenarios.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for rapid assembly and disassembly in emergency situations.
02
Utilizes translucent polycarbonate panels to maximize natural light while maintaining privacy.
03
Incorporates a central service core for kitchen and bathroom facilities, optimizing space efficiency.
04
Integrates renewable energy solutions with solar panels for off-grid living capabilities.
05
Constructed with sustainable timber materials, enhancing environmental performance and durability.
Cabinet Home is an architectural design project developed in response to the global crisis of displacement caused by conflicts and natural disasters. This project aims to provide a sustainable, efficient housing solution that can be rapidly deployed to assist individuals and families who have lost their homes. By integrating functionality and adaptability, Cabinet Home addresses critical aspects of shelter design, particularly in emergency situations.

The project features a modular system that resembles a cabinet, functioning as a central service core. This core contains essential utilities such as a kitchen, bathroom, and storage, allowing the surrounding living space to unfold from the hub. The design promotes community organization, enabling multiple units to be assembled in close proximity, fostering social interaction while respecting the privacy of residents. This focus on communal living sets Cabinet Home apart from traditional temporary shelters.

Innovative Modularity and Assembly
One of the key attributes of Cabinet Home is its modular assembly approach. The housing units are designed to be quickly and easily constructed using a simple unfolding mechanism. A pulley system allows for efficient deployment of ceiling and wall panels, while the floor panel can be manually positioned to form the living area. This practicality is essential in disaster situations where time and resources are limited.

Each unit is composed of sustainable materials including timber for structural support, plywood for walls and roof surfaces, and insulated timber waffle slabs to enhance thermal performance. Translucent polycarbonate panels are strategically placed in the design to provide natural light as well as privacy. The incorporation of photovoltaic solar panels and a rainwater collection system not only supports energy needs but also promotes environmental sustainability, making Cabinet Home an eco-conscious choice for post-disaster living.

Community-Centric Design Principles
Cabinet Home emphasizes community-building through its design, encouraging collaboration among displaced individuals. The layout allows flexibility in spatial organization, accommodating various family sizes and social dynamics, which is crucial for fostering a sense of belonging in recovery environments.

Additionally, the compact design minimizes land use, contributing to efficient resource allocation in areas that may have limited space and infrastructure. The project reflects a thoughtful balance between individual privacy and communal interaction, inviting residents to engage with one another while providing adequate living conditions.

Architecture professionals and stakeholders interested in emergency housing solutions are encouraged to explore the architectural plans and sections of Cabinet Home. A detailed examination of the architectural designs and ideas behind this project will yield valuable insights into its innovative approach and potential applicability in diverse contexts.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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