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Charred Wooden Shingles and Rainwater Harvesting in Sustainable Micro Homes

Authors:
Xander Wilhelmus Elisabeth Creusen, Yannick Huisinga
Charred Wooden Shingles and Rainwater Harvesting in Sustainable Micro Homes

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and laminated timber, this initiative redefines sustainable living in the Kherson region through innovative rainwater harvesting systems and adaptive micro homes that promote community resilience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and weather resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Innovative rainwater harvesting systems optimize water usage for residents.
04
The bent A-frame design maximizes interior space and natural light.
05
Wastewater separation promotes recycling and reduces environmental impact.

### Concept Overview
Located in the Kherson region of Ukraine, the project addresses acute water scarcity exacerbated by geopolitical instability and damage to infrastructure. The intent is to develop innovative housing solutions that prioritize sustainable living, communal engagement, and resilience to environmental challenges.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout consists of a cluster of micro homes designed around a central water management feature. This configuration enhances natural water flow and encourages interaction among residents. The homes are strategically positioned to optimize water management techniques while fostering a sense of community.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The design primarily employs biobased materials to ensure minimal environmental impact and facilitate disassembly at the end of their life cycles. Key materials include dowell laminated timber for structural integrity, water-resistant finishes, and recycled rubber for sound absorption. A sustainable roofing system is incorporated to eliminate the need for adhesives, thereby enhancing recyclability. Innovative strategies for water management are integrated into the design, including systems for rainwater collection, a dual sewage system to separate grey and black water, and vacuum toilets that significantly reduce water usage.

Each micro home, measuring 25 square meters, prioritizes comfort through efficient space utilization, functional kitchens, and integrated privacy solutions, all while maximizing natural light through large windows. The approach not only reflects an emphasis on user experience but also integrates the living environment with the surrounding landscape, fostering a harmonious connection between indoors and outdoors.

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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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