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Compact Living With Integrated Rainwater Collection and Community Engagement

Authors:
Javier ariel Barba romero, Helmut oliverio Martes carrillo
Compact Living With Integrated Rainwater Collection and Community Engagement

Project in-detail

With an integrated rainwater collection system and a focus on community engagement, the design offers efficient compact living solutions tailored for diverse urban needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units designed to optimize compact living for varied family structures.
02
Integrated rainwater collection system for sustainable water management.
03
Flexible design allows for horizontal and vertical expansion as needs change.
04
Dedicated spaces for organic crops and apiculture to foster self-sufficiency.
05
Pre-dimensioned cabinetry enhances storage efficiency in limited spaces.

The design presents a progressive modulation microhousing system aimed at tackling modern urban living challenges. Located in densely populated areas, the focus is on creating adaptable and efficient living spaces that cater to various needs. The overall concept centers on modularity, offering practical solutions for limited urban environments.

Modularity and Space Optimization

The installation includes microhome modules that vary in size from 3.125 m² to 25 m². This range allows occupants to select units based on their circumstances, whether for individuals or families. Each layout optimizes available space, merging living, cooking, and bathing areas into a cohesive plan. The arrangement features well-placed cabinetry that supports efficient storage and functionality, making the most of the compact areas.

Sustainability Initiatives

Sustainability is a key focus in this design. Integrated features such as a rainwater collection and storage system assist in managing water resources. This system provides non-potable water for uses like flushing and gardening, with options for filtering water for drinking. Additionally, the inclusion of an energy storage system supplies heating and cooking capabilities, promoting environmentally responsible living and reducing the carbon footprint.

Community Engagement

The design encourages social interaction among residents through thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. These areas include organic crops and apiculture stations, promoting self-sufficiency while fostering community ties. By incorporating these elements, the living environment not only enhances functionality but also enriches the overall experience for occupants.

Flexibility for Growth

The microhousing units allow for both horizontal and vertical growth, adjusting to the changing needs of residents over time. This flexibility is essential in urban contexts, where space is at a premium. The ability to expand modularly without requiring significant redesign ensures continued relevance and responsiveness to occupant needs.

This thoughtful approach to modular living integrates practical elements with community-focused designs, resulting in a space that addresses current challenges in urban housing while remaining mindful of the environment.

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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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