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Bamboo Structures and Corten Steel Define Sustainable Microhousing in Bali

Authors:
Lauren Christine Sharpe, Pina Razinger Jagodic
Bamboo Structures and Corten Steel Define Sustainable Microhousing in Bali

Project in-detail

Using locally sourced bamboo and weathered Corten steel, this microhome exemplifies sustainable design principles while promoting communal living in Bali’s tropical climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from locally sourced bamboo, enhancing structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Corten steel elements provide durability while integrating visually with the tropical environment.
03
Modular living spaces optimize functionality and adaptability for diverse resident needs.
04
Natural ventilation and light are maximized through a bent A-frame design and operable skylights.
05
Community decks encourage social interaction and cultural exchange among residents and visitors.

**Overview**

The Giving Tree Microhome project is situated in Bali, Indonesia, and aims to provide a sustainable architectural solution that integrates cultural values and ecological awareness. The design specifically addresses the environmental challenges associated with tourism while promoting community interaction and engagement. Key design principles rooted in Balinese philosophy inform the approach, ensuring that the architecture aligns with the local culture and natural landscape.

**Regenerative Design Philosophy**

The project embodies regenerative design principles that prioritize the restoration and maintenance of the local ecosystem. Features such as rainwater collection and natural ventilation systems are seamlessly integrated to reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources. The elevated structure includes communal decks that facilitate social interaction and cultural exchanges, reinforcing the importance of community within the modern living context. This design not only addresses individual housing needs but also serves as a model for sustainable community-oriented living in the region.

**Materiality and Construction Techniques**

Material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and local resource utilization. Bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris) serves as a primary structural material, chosen for its rapid renewability and strength. Corten steel adds durability while contributing an aesthetic component to the design. Upcycled ocean plastics are utilized in tiles and decorative features, addressing environmental waste and enhancing artistic expression. The integration of the Kingspan Garainta Li-Lo water management system efficiently captures and reuses rainwater, aligning with the project’s ecological goals. Non-toxic finishes throughout the interior ensure a healthy living environment, underscoring a holistic approach to both well-being and environmental impact.

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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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