Get inspired!

17,363 architecture projects

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

Aquaponics and Adobe Walls in a Sustainable Family Residence

Author:
Lucas Miller
Aquaponics and Adobe Walls in a Sustainable Family Residence

Project in-detail

Integrating aquaponics and adobe walls, this residence exemplifies sustainable living through advanced water management and natural materials, creating a functional family home that fosters environmental awareness and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates an aquaponics system for sustainable food production within the living space.
02
Utilizes structural insulated panels for enhanced thermal performance and rapid construction.
03
Incorporates adobe walls, improving indoor climate regulation and environmental impact.
04
Features extensive vertical gardens that contribute to biodiversity and air quality.
05
Designed with a central courtyard to optimize natural ventilation and light penetration.
Oasis House is a residential architectural project designed to promote sustainability and community engagement. It integrates innovative environmental technologies with functional living spaces to create a modern, efficient home. The architectural approach emphasizes resource efficiency, reducing carbon footprints, and fostering indoor-outdoor connections, all while maintaining an aesthetic that harmonizes with its surroundings.

The primary function of Oasis House is to provide a sustainable living environment tailored to the needs of contemporary families. The design incorporates a central courtyard that serves as a key element for natural ventilation, light penetration, and a focus on shared space among inhabitants. This courtyard not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the residence but also supports passive climate control strategies.

Innovative Water Management Practices
A distinctive feature of Oasis House is its comprehensive water management system. The project employs grey and black water recycling techniques that treat and repurpose wastewater for irrigation and plumbing purposes. This implementation significantly minimizes water waste and supports sustainable living practices. Additionally, aquaponics systems are integrated, allowing for simultaneous fish farming and crop production, further enhancing the self-sufficiency of the residence.

Materials and Energy Efficiency
The material palette for Oasis House has been carefully selected to align with its sustainability goals. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) form the core structural system, providing excellent thermal performance and contributing to a reduction in energy consumption. Adobe plaster finishes offer natural insulation properties, while large glass facades allow ample daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting and creating a seamless connection to the outdoor environment.

Architectural Flexibility and Community Interaction
The layout of Oasis House encourages flexibility and adaptability in its spaces. Open-plan living areas can be customized to suit the needs of the occupants, promoting an interactive lifestyle that fosters relationships. The design features communal spaces to enhance social interactions among residents, supporting a strong sense of community.

The architectural plans and sections of Oasis House illustrate its functional layout and material usage. Review the architectural designs to understand the considerations that shape this project. For deeper insights into Oasis House's design concepts, examine the architectural ideas that drive its innovative approach to modern living.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 17,363 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