Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Biomimetic Water Harvesting With Hollowcore Walls and Sustainable Materials For Humid Climates

Authors:
Rami Mikhaeil Makdissi, Mouhamd Maher Rawass
Biomimetic Water Harvesting With Hollowcore Walls and Sustainable Materials For Humid Climates

Project in-detail

Harnessing biomimetic principles, this residence employs a rainwater harvesting system alongside hollowcore walls and sustainable materials to effectively address the challenges of living in a humid climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs a rainwater harvesting system inspired by biomimicry for efficient water collection.
02
Integrates hollowcore walls for enhanced thermal performance and resource efficiency.
03
Features sloped roofs equipped with photovoltaic panels for optimized solar energy capture.
04
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
05
Designed with narrow corridors that provide shade and reduce heat exposure.
The "House of the Future" is a residential architectural project designed to address the challenges of living in a hot and humid climate. It embodies an integration of advanced sustainable practices with functional and aesthetic considerations. The project emphasizes energy efficiency and innovative water management, alongside a design that draws inspiration from natural elements.

The architectural design features a configuration that facilitates ventilation and natural light, improving the occupants' comfort. Sloped roofs equipped with photovoltaic panels capture solar energy, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainability. The use of hollowcore walls enhances thermal performance, while narrow corridors ensure shaded, cooler access through the living spaces. This careful planning promotes both communal interaction and individual privacy within the home.

Sustainability-Focused Design Approaches

The project distinguishes itself through several unique design approaches. First, its incorporation of biomimicry reflects a deep understanding of natural processes to solve architectural challenges. The design draws from the inspiration of the darkling beetle's ability to collect water from moisture in the air, incorporating a sophisticated rainwater harvesting system that captures and purifies rainwater efficiently.

Additionally, the use of materials such as concrete, glass, steel, and sustainably sourced wood provides the structure with durability and thermal efficiency. The architectural plans incorporate energy-efficient strategies, ensuring that the house operates with minimal reliance on external resources. Furthermore, solar water heating systems complement the overall energy-efficient goals of the design.

Innovative Spatial Configuration and Functional Elements

The project's spatial configuration facilitates adaptability to the local climate. Each space is designed to optimize airflow, regulate temperature, and improve indoor environmental quality. The arrangement of interior rooms promotes easy access to communal areas like living and dining spaces while maintaining distinct private zones for bedrooms. This balance between public and private areas enhances the overall functionality of the residence.

Sun breakers installed on the exterior help mitigate excessive solar glare, ensuring comfort and enhancing the aesthetic's visual appeal. Each design element serves a dual function, allowing the project to engage successfully with its surrounding environment while maintaining a coherent architectural identity.

For a comprehensive understanding of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, explore the project presentation for more details on the innovative ideas employed throughout the design process.
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 17,249 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