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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

Project in-detail

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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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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