Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Biological Waste Treatment with Cross-Laminated Timber in Compact Modular Housing

Author:
Petre Simonescu
Biological Waste Treatment with Cross-Laminated Timber in Compact Modular Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing Cross-Laminated Timber and a biological wastewater treatment system, this compact modular housing solution offers a flexible and sustainable living option while prioritizing energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Cross-Laminated Timber for structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates a compact, non-electric biological wastewater treatment system.
03
Designed for easy relocation, minimizing environmental impact.
04
Supports energy needs with eight photovoltaic panels per module.
05
Features an adaptable layout allowing expansion or contraction based on occupancy.

The Mito - Multiplying Modular House offers a fresh take on residential living through a design inspired by the natural process of cell division. Located in an environment that values sustainability, the house functions as a flexible and adaptable space. It can expand or contract depending on the changing needs of the occupants. This focus on functionality and environmental care reshapes the way individuals can interact with their living spaces over time.

Modularity

The design features two independent modules that can either serve as one complete living unit or function as two separate homes. This dual-module system allows easy relocation, minimizing the typical environmental impact of conventional housing. When the modules are moved, only a concrete foundation and an area for the septic system remain behind, illustrating a commitment to responsible development practices.

Technical Components

Self-sufficiency is key to the modules. Each one is equipped with systems that support off-grid living. A Water Filtration System and septic tank manage waste effectively, ensuring clean water and proper sanitation. The septic system employs a compact, non-electric approach to treat wastewater biologically. This process separates impurities before discharging treated water, highlighting the design’s attention to functionality and ecological awareness.

Energy Strategy

Energy efficiency plays an important role in the overall design. Analysis of solar potential in Berlin, Germany, informs the energy strategy. Each module can accommodate eight photovoltaic panels, generating around 4 kWh. This output is sufficient for a household of three to four people. Additionally, an underfloor heating system requires only 2.5 kWh, which enhances comfort while maintaining low energy consumption.

Materiality

Cross-Laminated Timber (C.L.T.) is used for building the modules. This material provides strength and stability while aligning with sustainability goals. Utilizing C.L.T. allows for prefabrication, which reduces waste and makes construction more efficient. This choice supports the overall aim of creating a residential space that is both practical and environmentally conscious.

Mito's design responds directly to modern housing challenges. It facilitates adaptability, sustainability, and efficient use of resources. Through its structural features and integrated systems, it presents a clear vision for future housing solutions, striking a balance between practicality and thoughtful design.

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