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Climbing Wall and Grow Tanks in a Sustainable Micro Home

Authors:
André Clos, Chiara Valci, Erica Caridi, Silvia Botta
Climbing Wall and Grow Tanks in a Sustainable Micro Home
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Equipped with a climbing wall and integrated grow tanks, this compact home prioritizes sustainable living while providing essential space for a young couple.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a climbing wall for access to upper levels.
02
Features integrated grow tanks for cultivating organic produce.
03
Multi-level layout optimizes privacy and social interaction.
04
Utilizes aerothermal energy systems for efficient climate control.
05
Includes hammocks beneath a skylight for multifunctional leisure space.

The MacroMicro Home project represents a thoughtful approach to modern urban living, combining the needs of a young couple with principles of sustainability. Located in an environment that promotes community engagement, the design focuses on functionality and resource efficiency. Each element of the project contributes to a cohesive concept that integrates life within the home and the surrounding nature.

Spatial Organization

The layout prioritizes different functional areas. Living spaces are clearly defined, with separate zones for sleeping, cooking, bathing, studying, and recreation. The multi-level design enhances privacy while still encouraging social interaction. Entering the home, residents find themselves in a generous living area that flows naturally into the kitchen and service spaces, creating an effective and practical layout for everyday activities.

Connection with Nature

The project emphasizes a strong connection with the outdoors. By offering various views of the landscape, it fosters a sense of harmony with the natural environment. This relationship not only enhances the aesthetic experience but also contributes to the overall well-being of its occupants. The design encourages residents to enjoy the fresh air and beauty of their surroundings, making nature an integral part of daily life.

Encouraging an Active Lifestyle

One distinctive feature is the climbing wall that provides access to upper levels. This element invites physical activity into the home, aligning with the growing trend of incorporating fitness into daily routines. The presence of hammocks below a large skylight not only adds a unique flair to the interior but also serves as a relaxing area for leisure, providing a cozy spot for unwinding or socializing with others.

Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is woven throughout the design. Aerothermal energy systems are applied for heating and cooling, promoting energy efficiency. Innovations such as water reuse and recovery systems are strategically placed in technical areas, reflecting a commitment to reducing the home's environmental impact. The inclusion of external grow tanks allows for the cultivation of organic produce, contributing to self-sufficiency and encouraging interactions among neighbors who may exchange homegrown goods.

The MacroMicro Home illustrates a careful balance of functional living, community connection, and environmental consideration. With its focus on practical design elements and an overall commitment to sustainability, it offers a meaningful perspective on modern urban living.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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