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Aeroponic Vertical Gardens and Greywater Systems in Adaptive Community Homes

Authors:
Elizabeth Cerny, Jami Mohlenkamp, Angela Gunn, Suzanne Stawiarski
Aeroponic Vertical Gardens and Greywater Systems in Adaptive Community Homes
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Aeroponic vertical gardens and integrated greywater systems define an adaptable residential community that prioritizes sustainability and accessibility in its design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Aeroponic gardens enable residents to grow food vertically, saving space and enhancing self-sufficiency.
02
Greywater systems are integrated for efficient water recycling within the community.
03
Modular wall and roof panels allow for easy customization and adaptation over time.
04
Low-profile furniture ensures accessibility for individuals with varying mobility needs.
05
The design promotes clustering of homes to foster community interaction and support.

Domus Aeterna showcases a practical approach to residential design with a focus on flexibility and sustainability. Situated to blend with its natural surroundings, the project aims to create homes that serve as more than just shelter but also adapt to the changing needs of their occupants. The design is built on the principles of universal and regenerative architecture, providing an inclusive living environment for diverse populations.

Universal Adaptability
The concept emphasizes modular construction, allowing for customization of walls and roofs according to individual preferences. Residents can modify their living spaces over time, adjusting to their physical and emotional needs. Features like low-profile furniture and adjustable work surfaces improve access throughout the homes, making it easier for everyone to move around comfortably.

Sustainable Features
A commitment to sustainability is evident in the design choices, which prioritize the use of safe and healthy materials. The homes incorporate renewable energy options such as solar panels and systems for collecting stormwater, enhancing their overall efficiency. Additional features like greywater tanks and composting toilets help reduce waste and promote resource conservation, reflecting a responsible approach to environmental impacts.

Community-Centric Design
The design also plans for the arrangement of multiple homes in close proximity, encouraging a sense of community among residents. This layout allows for opportunities to share resources and support one another while still offering privacy. Adaptability to local conditions is a key consideration, ensuring that the homes fit well with their community and climate.

Innovative Living Solutions
Distinct elements such as aeroponic food walls highlight the integration of sustainability into everyday living. These features encourage personal food production, promoting self-sufficiency and a connection to the environment. By incorporating such practical solutions, the design advances a vision of living that emphasizes both individual well-being and a strong community fabric.

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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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