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Bioreactor Facade and Microalgae Integration in Compact Urban Homes

Authors:
Darien Too, Qin Hong Tang, Bruce Yee, Dennis Ng
Bioreactor Facade and Microalgae Integration in Compact Urban Homes

Project in-detail

Integrating a bioreactor facade with microalgae cultivation, this compact urban home offers a sustainable solution to energy independence and food security in a climate-resilient design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a bioreactor facade specifically designed for microalgae cultivation to enhance energy production.
02
Utilizes aluminum roof panels and glass facades to optimize natural light and drainage efficiency.
03
Incorporates a portable greywater treatment system to promote sustainable water recycling.
04
Features buoyancy flotation devices for structural stability in flooding conditions.
05
Includes indoor farming units to support food security and ecological self-sufficiency.

The Last Home is a forward-thinking architectural project designed to address the pressing challenges of climate change, particularly in urban environments like Singapore that are vulnerable to rising sea levels. The project features a collection of micro homes that incorporate advanced bioreactor technology to cultivate algae, transforming the living space into a functional ecosystem that contributes to energy production and food security. The design reflects a deep commitment to sustainability, ecological balance, and resource efficiency, positioning itself as a model for future urban housing solutions.

Sustainability Through Bioreactor Technology The design of The Last Home seamlessly integrates a micro algae bioreactor system into residential architecture. This system enhances the ecological footprint of the home by enabling the production of biogas and biofuels from algae cultivated on-site. The algae zones incorporated into the structure capture carbon dioxide, supporting a closed-loop ecosystem that emphasizes energy independence. The structural elements include an aluminum roof and glass facade, which facilitate efficient water drainage and natural lighting, respectively.

In addition, portable water filtration and greywater treatment tanks contribute to the project's sustainability by recycling water, a critical feature for resource management in urban settings. The architecture's adaptability allows for modifications in response to environmental shifts, ensuring resilience against the physical impacts of climate change.

Innovative Living Spaces The Last Home is not merely a dwelling; it is an innovative living space that prioritizes resilience and functionality. Every element of the design serves a dual purpose, promoting both habitability and ecological contribution. The incorporation of indoor farming units enables residents to grow edible algae and other plants, reinforcing the project's focus on food security and self-sufficiency.

Distinctive architectural features, such as the buoyancy flotation devices, ensure structural stability during flooding events, while the battery generator provides a reliable energy backup. These noteworthy aspects of the design underscore the project’s commitment to creating safe, sustainable, and adaptable living solutions that harmonize with the surrounding environment.

Exploring Architectural Design and Function The Last Home exemplifies an approach to architecture that prioritizes interaction with nature and sustainability at its core. The thoughtful integration of bioreactors, effective use of materials, and innovative use of space redefine traditional notions of residential living in the context of urban ecology. Each architectural detail—from the micro algae bioreactor to the water management systems—functions to enhance both the personal living experience and the broader environmental narrative.

For those interested in delving deeper into the project, it is encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs associated with The Last Home. Understanding these elements will provide further insights into the architectural ideas that inform this unique approach to modern living in a climate-challenged world.

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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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