Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Biomass Heating System With Inclined Roof Utilizing Recycled PVC and Timber for Efficient Rainwater Management in Residential Living

Authors:
Jakub Gasek, Kornelia Nejmańska
Biomass Heating System With Inclined Roof Utilizing Recycled PVC and Timber for Efficient Rainwater Management in Residential Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing silvergrass for biomass heating and a uniquely inclined roof for efficient rainwater collection, this residence exemplifies sustainable living while providing a warm and inviting home environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes silvergrass as a renewable biomass source for heating, enhancing sustainability in energy use.
02
Features an inclined roof designed specifically for efficient rainwater collection and filtration.
03
Incorporates recycled PVC facade cladding to improve insulation while reducing environmental impact.
04
Employs a compact geometric design to optimize energy conservation and natural light utilization.
05
Integrates a central heating system strategically positioned for effective warmth distribution throughout the living areas.
The Silvergrass House is a carefully designed residential project that embodies a deep connection to its environment while prioritizing sustainability and energy efficiency. Located in a temperate climate, this architectural endeavor reflects a modern approach to living that harmonizes with nature. The design serves not only as a dwelling but also as a testament to eco-friendly practices in residential architecture.

At its core, the Silvergrass House represents a forward-thinking model for contemporary living. It emphasizes reducing energy consumption and environmental impact through thoughtful design strategies. The house functions as a self-sustaining unit, integrating systems that harness renewable resources, showcasing a commitment to ecological responsibility. This approach demonstrates how architecture can respond to pressing environmental concerns while creating a comfortable and inviting home.

The architectural design features a distinctive inclined roof, which is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional. It is specifically crafted to collect rainwater, channeling it into a centralized storage system. This feature underscores the intention to minimize reliance on external water sources, thereby promoting sustainability. Furthermore, the overall form of the house is characterized by a compact geometry, which is essential for energy conservation, as it reduces the building's surface area and enhances thermal efficiency.

A key aspect of the Silvergrass House is its innovative spatial organization. The interior layout is centered around multifunctional areas, with the kitchen and heating systems strategically placed to optimize warmth distribution throughout the living spaces. This thoughtful arrangement fosters a sense of community and encourages family interaction, making the house not just a shelter, but a vibrant living environment.

Material choices in the Silvergrass House reflect an unwavering commitment to sustainability. The structure employs timber columns that provide both strength and warmth, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The use of recycled PVC for facade cladding enhances insulation properties while minimizing the ecological footprint of the project. Other materials such as oriented strand board (OSB) for roof supports and plywood for interior finishes reinforce the project’s focus on using environmentally responsible resources.

One of the standout features of the Silvergrass House is its heating system, which derives energy from a biomass source—specifically, Silvergrass itself. This plant, known for its high energy yield, is cultivated locally, aligning well with the overarching goal of sustainability. The integration of a fireplace and water boiler that utilizes this biomass not only serves practical heating needs but also supports the idea of renewable energy generation within a residential context.

The design also exhibits a commitment to effective rainwater management, with the inclined roof facilitating quick drainage and filtration. This system ensures that collected rainwater is utilized efficiently, further enhancing the project’s ecological credentials. By incorporating these elements into its design, the Silvergrass House illustrates how modern architecture can effectively blend functionality with environmental stewardship.

Unique design approaches in this project highlight the use of local materials and the integration of natural systems into everyday living. By focusing on renewable energy sources and efficient resource management, the Silvergrass House sets a precedent for future residential designs, exemplifying how thoughtful architecture can contribute to sustainability.

For a deeper understanding of the Silvergrass House, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans and sections that provide insights into the project’s innovative design ideas. These resources are instrumental in appreciating the full extent of the architectural strategies employed to create a home that is not only functional but also deeply rooted in its environmental context. Engaging with the architectural designs will reveal how this project stands as a noteworthy example of responsible and responsive architecture, setting the stage for future developments in the field.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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 16544 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