Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Vertical Experience with Biofuel Integration in Modular Urban Spaces

Authors:
Thanat Prathnadi, Nathan Ngo, Liva Sadovska
Vertical Experience with Biofuel Integration in Modular Urban Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical farms and biofuel energy systems, the modular structure facilitates cultural exchange through immersive experiences while revitalizing local economies in urban environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates vertical farms to enhance local food production.
02
Features biofuel energy systems for sustainable power.
03
Utilizes modular design for adaptable cultural exhibitions.
04
Engages local businesses to provide authentic cultural products.
05
Accommodates various climates with customizable unit designs.

The Glo-Cal Experience is a modular system designed to respond to the needs of tourism and local economies in the wake of COVID-19. Set in urban environments, it allows different countries to showcase their unique cultures. The structure features a rotating design that facilitates cultural exchange. Its main purpose is to create an engaging space for both visitors and local communities, providing opportunities for interaction and learning.

Modular Design

The design utilizes a modular approach, which includes plug-in units for various functions. These spaces can accommodate interactive screens, immersive environments, and retail shops. This adaptability meets the changing demands of visitors and aligns with seasonal interests. Compliance with local building requirements is an essential feature of this flexible approach.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a central theme in the Glo-Cal Experience. The structure incorporates environmental systems such as solar power modules and rainwater harvesting. Vertical farms and biofuel energy plants support ecological goals. These elements contribute to reducing the project's overall carbon footprint, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility.

Cultural Representation

Community involvement is another key aspect. Local businesses from participating countries occupy spaces within the modules. They offer products and services that reflect their cultural backgrounds. This integration supports local economies and provides visitors with authentic cultural experiences, enriching their time spent in the space.

Geographical Adaptability

The design is mindful of geographical context. It can adapt to various climates, including both tropical and mountainous environments. This consideration ensures that each modular unit can be tailored based on local conditions. The result is a structure that is functional, relevant, and respectful of its surroundings.

The Glo-Cal Experience culminates in a blend of spaces that encourage movement and exploration of diverse cultural narratives. Visitors are engaged meaningfully, immersing themselves in educational experiences that broaden their understanding of global cultures.

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