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Aquatic-Plant Landscaping and Precast Structures Enhancing Sustainable Living

Authors:
Terrence Etienne, Carlos Teissonniere
Aquatic-Plant Landscaping and Precast Structures Enhancing Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Sustainable water management through rainwater harvesting and integrated aquatic planting systems defines a collection of interconnected pavilions designed to foster community well-being in a natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sustainable rainwater harvesting system supports all water needs onsite.
02
Incorporation of eco-friendly incineration toilets reduces environmental impact.
03
Pavilions are strategically spaced to enhance natural light penetration.
04
Use of precast concrete allows for efficient and durable construction.
05
Integrated aquatic planting systems provide natural water filtration and beautification.

Karma - House of Voca is a thoughtful arrangement of pavilions, each serving a specific purpose, situated within a calm natural landscape. The design emphasizes a strong relationship with the environment, inviting occupants to engage closely with the space around them. By spacing out the pavilions to create voids that let in light and offer views of the outdoors, the design fosters an atmosphere of openness and tranquility.

SUSTAINABILITY AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY

The project integrates sustainable features that allow it to function with minimal outside input. Solar panels are positioned to capture sunlight and generate renewable energy. A rainwater harvesting system collects water from the roofs for reuse within the building. Taken together, these elements support a responsible approach to resource management.

CIRCULATION AND SPATIAL ARRANGEMENT

An open circulation spine connects the pavilions, making it easy for people to move from one space to another. This design enhances natural light and visual links between different areas, creating a sense of flow. The layout not only prioritizes movement but also contributes to the overall experience by encouraging interaction among spaces.

MATERIALITY AND AESTHETICS

The choice of materials is intentional, focusing on durability and integration with the natural surroundings. Precast concrete forms the main structure, providing strength and a simple, clean look. Wood is used for cladding the pavilions, adding warmth that harmonizes with the outdoor environment. Large glass windows and walls create visual connections between inside and outside, allowing natural light to fill the spaces.

The pavilions also incorporate eco-friendly incineration toilets that process waste by using high heat, eliminating the need for traditional septic systems. This practical innovation showcases the commitment to sustainability and efficient resource management throughout the design.

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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
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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