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Biogas-Powered Waste Facility with Foldable Timber Design

Authors:
Clémence Gavel, Kenza Stiki, Coraline Naturel
Biogas-Powered Waste Facility with Foldable Timber Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing a biogas system for energy conversion, the facility combines foldable timber construction with innovative waste management solutions to serve hikers in remote locations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a dual digester system for efficient waste processing.
02
Incorporates discarded clothing as insulation material.
03
Features a lightweight and transportable foldable timber design.
04
Powered by solar concentrators to optimize biogas production.
05
Provides a user-friendly facility specifically for remote hikers.

The "Lookit" project provides a functional solution to the challenges of waste management in remote hiking areas. Located in rugged terrains frequented by outdoor enthusiasts, it emphasizes sustainability and accessibility for users. The design centers around a toilet unit that efficiently manages waste while respecting the surrounding environment.

Design Concept

The layout features two levels. The upper level is designed for direct use by hikers, while the lower level focuses on waste recycling. This arrangement enhances the user experience. It allows for convenient access to facilities while efficiently processing waste materials below.

Waste Transformation

Waste transformation occurs through a systematic two-stage process. Discarded clothing found in the hiking area is repurposed as insulation. This reduces unnecessary waste. Additionally, human feces are converted into energy through a biogas system, highlighting a practical solution to waste disposal. A solar concentrator and insulation work together to ensure the digester functions at the proper temperature.

Material Use

Foldable timber panels form the walls of the base level. These panels encase the cloth insulation, which contributes to the project’s focus on reusing materials. This choice aids in making the unit lightweight and easily transportable, allowing for relocation across varied hiking terrains.

Operational Efficiency

A generator is placed at the edges of the lower level, supplying electrical power to the unit. This feature accommodates hikers who may need to charge devices or maintain communication while in remote locations. The design enhances the overall experience by integrating these practical needs into its setup.

The dual digester system at the base level allows for the continuous handling of waste. This setup ensures that one digester is in use while the other is available for immediate needs. Each element of this unit reflects careful consideration of function, practicality, and ecological responsibility.

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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

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