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Bamboo Clad Pod With Green Roof Utilizing Rainwater Harvesting in Brazilian Rainforest

Authors:
Maxwell Dehne, Dennis Almeida, Sheri Fabian
Bamboo Clad Pod With Green Roof Utilizing Rainwater Harvesting in Brazilian Rainforest

Project in-detail

Constructed with bamboo cladding and topped with a green roof that collects rainwater, the dwelling integrates sustainable design principles to create an efficient residential space within the Brazilian rainforest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced bamboo to enhance sustainability and reduce transport emissions.
02
Incorporates a green roof that provides insulation and promotes local biodiversity.
03
Features an automatic solar panel rotation system for optimal energy capture throughout the day.
04
Elevated design protects against moisture and allows the natural landscape to flourish beneath.
05
Utilizes a rainwater harvesting system to meet household water needs sustainably.

Lar da Beleza is an architectural project located in Iranduba, Amazonas, Brazil. This design exemplifies a commitment to sustainable living within a rainforest environment. The dwelling functions as a residential pod that integrates modern design principles with environmental considerations. The architecture reflects a juxtaposition of contemporary aesthetics and traditional materials, effectively merging functionality with sustainability.

Sustainable Materiality and Design Integration

The project's design emphasizes the use of sustainable materials and local resources. The exterior is predominantly clad in bamboo siding, known for its longevity and minimal environmental impact. The choice of bamboo aligns with the project's ethos of utilizing renewable materials that harmonize with the surrounding ecosystem. The structure also features a green roof system that enhances thermal insulation and fosters biodiversity, encouraging local plant growth.

The energy efficiency of Lar da Beleza is achieved through innovative solutions, including a solar panel facade that captures solar energy effectively. The panels employ an automatic rotation mechanism to maximize sun exposure, thereby optimizing energy utilization. Additionally, a rainwater harvesting system is integrated, allowing for the collection and storage of rainwater to meet the household's water needs. This dual utility system exemplifies responsible resource management in a region where water conservation is crucial.

Architectural Layout and Functionality

The architectural layout of Lar da Beleza promotes fluidity and openness. An open-concept design facilitates seamless transitions between the kitchen, living area, and sleeping quarters, enhancing the usability of space while promoting social interaction. The interior showcases multifunctional furnishings that maximize space without compromising comfort. Large windows are strategically placed to invite natural light and provide expansive views of the surrounding rainforest.

The elevation of the structure above the ground addresses potential moisture issues and protects the integrity of the environment beneath. This design choice respects the natural landscape, allowing it to continue its ecological function. The overall aesthetic is characterized by simple, clean lines that reflect a modern interpretation of living in harmony with nature.

For detailed insights into Lar da Beleza, including architectural plans, sections, and design features, explore the full project presentation. The innovative approaches used in this project demonstrate a viable model for future sustainable architecture in sensitive ecological settings.

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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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