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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.

# Architectural Analysis Report: Oasis House

This report provides an analysis of Oasis House, located in an urban context that prioritizes sustainability and innovative design principles. The project focuses on efficiency, environmental consciousness, and community-oriented living, aiming to redefine modern residential architecture through a thoughtful integration of nature and structural elements.

## Spatial Configuration

A central courtyard forms the heart of Oasis House, facilitating natural light, ventilation, and climate control. The strategic orientation toward the Qibla not only underscores a spiritual connection to the environment but also ensures cultural relevance. The design features flowing lines that enhance the interconnectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a cohesive living experience.

## Materiality and Systems Integration

The construction employs a combination of materials that promote environmental sustainability and functional design. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) improve thermal performance, while adobe plaster offers durability and cooling effects. A glass facade provides expansive views and a connection to the surrounding landscape. The incorporation of hydro panelling supports sustainable plant watering practices.

In terms of water management, the recycling system is comprehensive, treating grey and black water for various uses, including landscape irrigation and aquaponics. This system promotes a zero-water-waste approach, enhancing the overall sustainability of the residence. Shared communal spaces are integrated into the design to foster social interactions and strengthen community ties, aligning the physical environment with social sustainability goals.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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