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Buffered Bathtubs and Recycled Insulation in a Self-Sufficient Home

Author:
Jules-valentin Boucher
Buffered Bathtubs and Recycled Insulation in a Self-Sufficient Home

Project in-detail

Utilizing buffered bathtubs for phytodepuration and recycled insulating wool, the design offers a sustainable living environment tailored for young couples in temperate climates.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes buffered bathtubs for an innovative phytodepuration system Features walls made of recycled insulating wool for enhanced sustainability Offers adaptable living spaces that can expand from 25 to 40 square meters Integrates rainwater harvesting and grey water separation for efficient water management Employs a lightweight structure with a focus on low-tech construction methods.

MICROHOUSE MACROHOME is designed for young couples in climates such as those found in Paris or Kyoto. The focus is on adaptability, sustainability, and minimalism. Low-tech solutions are incorporated to maximize the functionality of the living space while reducing environmental impact. The concept revolves around creating a home that can grow and change as the needs of its residents evolve.

Layout and Spatial Configuration

The layout allows for a flexible living experience. Initially, the space measures 25 square meters but can expand to 40 square meters due to well-planned double-height ceilings. This possibility for expansion is a key feature of the design. The open configuration promotes a strong connection between indoor and outdoor areas, encouraging residents to feel more at ease in their environment.

Water Management System

An important part of the design is the water management system. Rainwater harvesting is integrated to provide a sustainable source of water. The system also separates drinkable water from grey water, promoting responsible usage. Additionally, reused bathtubs for phytodepuration add to the ecological approach, enhancing the project's overall sustainability.

Material Selection

The project relies on several materials that support its focus on sustainability. Exposed insulating wool made from recycled fabric is used in the walls. Structural plywood or OSB provides essential support. Insulating wool is sourced from either recycled materials or biobased options, while waterproof sheeting offers protection from moisture. Timber battens and hardwood cladding contribute to the structure, and corrugated translucent polycarbonate roofing allows natural light to fill the interior.

Functional Living Scenarios

Various functional living scenarios are included in the design to cater to different lifestyle needs. These scenarios feature a bedroom with a floor-to-ceiling bookshelf, a kingsized bedroom with a small office, and a home office that accommodates sleeping arrangements on futons. This flexibility in the design allows residents to tailor their spaces according to their preferences and day-to-day routines.

The facade of MICROHOUSE MACROHOME shows a blend of textures and proportions, adding to its visual appeal while ensuring that natural light can enter the interior. This design detail enhances the overall atmosphere, creating a comfortable and inviting home.

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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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