Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Bamboo Structure with Thermoplastic Shell Integrating Rainwater Harvesting in a Tropical Setting

Authors:
Shynar Aidarbek, Ravil Nurgissa
Bamboo Structure with Thermoplastic Shell Integrating Rainwater Harvesting in a Tropical Setting

Project in-detail

Constructed with bamboo and thermoplastic materials, the design incorporates rainwater harvesting systems to create a compact living space that facilitates research and creative work in a tropical environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with locally sourced bamboo for sustainability and strength.
02
Incorporates a thermoplastic shell that allows for natural light while providing insulation.
03
Features an integrated rainwater harvesting system to promote water conservation.
04
Employs an open-plan layout to enhance ventilation and interaction with nature.
05
Designed to serve dual functions as a living space and a creative workspace.

### Project Overview
Located in a tropical environment abundant with vegetation, the Bamboo House spans 25 square meters and is designed to accommodate research scientists studying local ecosystems, as well as serving various functions for creative professionals and youth. The design emphasizes ecological responsibility and aligns with its setting, aiming to provide a functional and comfortable living space that fosters engagement with the surrounding natural landscape.

### Material Strategy
The Bamboo House utilizes sustainable materials that support its ecological focus. Bamboo (Bambusa spp.) serves as the primary structural material, chosen for its high tensile strength, flexibility, and rapid growth cycle, thereby minimizing environmental impact. Concrete panels are employed for their stability and support in foundational areas, incorporating embedded solar cells for energy needs. Glass elements are strategically placed to maximize natural light, while thermoplastic sheets form the outer shell, providing insulation and durability while allowing filtered light to permeate the interior.

### Spatial Configuration
The internal layout of the Bamboo House features two distinct floor plan options, both optimized for efficient space utilization. Convertible furniture enhances versatility, allowing the spaces to adapt to various activities. The open design promotes natural ventilation and light penetration, reducing dependence on mechanical cooling systems. Unique architectural features, including a curved roof that mimics natural forms, add aesthetic value while serving functional roles in rainwater management and airflow. The design intentionally integrates biophilic elements, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor areas to create a direct connection with nature.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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