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Concave Roof and Rainwater Collection in a Self-Sustaining Micro Home

Authors:
John benedict Castillo, Alexandra Lagundi, Carla leana Salao, Aron cyrus Almirez
Concave Roof and Rainwater Collection in a Self-Sustaining Micro Home

Project in-detail

A concave roof design combined with an efficient rainwater collection system defines a self-sustaining micro home that maximizes space while promoting sustainable living practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a rainwater collection system integrated with copper piping for water efficiency.
02
Features a concave roof design that enhances light distribution and sound management.
03
Incorporates built-in storage solutions to maximize functionality within a small footprint.
04
Employs high ceilings and strategic openings to promote natural ventilation.
05
Adapts a tatami setup allowing for flexible living spaces and modular furniture arrangements.

LE' SPARROW is an exploration into micro housing, set in an urban environment where optimizing space is essential. Functioning as a self-sustaining living area, it caters to the demands of modern life that require flexibility within a limited footprint. The project emphasizes sustainable practices and thoughtful design to create a space that balances functionality with comfort.

Utilizing Built-in Storage

The layout features built-in storage that maximizes space while maintaining a clean aesthetic. This design choice allows residents to navigate their home easily, adapting their environment for various daily tasks. Every inch counts in micro living, and this approach ensures that each area serves a purpose, promoting an organized and efficient use of space.



Rainwater Collection System

One notable aspect is the rainwater collection system, which highlights a commitment to sustainability. This system captures rainwater from the roof and channels it through copper pipes to important areas like the water closet. By relying on harvested rainwater, LE' SPARROW reduces dependency on external water sources and supports a more self-sufficient lifestyle.



Ventilation and Climate Control

The design draws from principles of tropical architecture to enhance natural ventilation and manage indoor climate. High ceilings and well-placed openings allow air to flow freely throughout the space, creating a comfortable atmosphere. The venturi effect is utilized to improve air circulation, ensuring that the indoor environment remains pleasant without heavy reliance on mechanical systems.



Material Selection

Materials chosen for the project include cherry wood, natural oak, aluminum, and ceramic tiles, such as white and mosaic types. Lime wash concrete is also used, contributing to the overall durability of the structure. Together, these materials create a cohesive look that aligns with the functional goals of the design.



The roof features a concave shape that serves multiple purposes. It helps manage sound and distributes light, resulting in a warm and inviting interior space. The focus on these design elements showcases the project’s attention to detail and its aim to enhance the overall living experience.

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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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