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Cork Insulated Tiny House with Rainwater Collection

Author:
Sophia Mack
Cork Insulated Tiny House with Rainwater Collection

Project in-detail

With its cork insulation and integrated rainwater collection system, this tiny house offers an efficient off-grid living solution for two residents in an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cork insulation minimizes heat loss while promoting sustainability.
02
A rainwater collection system supports water independence.
03
Solar panels provide sufficient energy for off-grid living.
04
Foldable divisions create adaptable interior spaces.
05
Under-bed storage maximizes storage capacity in a compact design.

The tiny house project addresses important housing concerns in urban settings, particularly in Munich, Germany. Designed for two people, this compact living space operates without the need for extra heating or cooling systems. The focus is on sustainability and energy efficiency, combining green technologies with adaptable living spaces in one cohesive design.

Architecture and Insulation

At the heart of the design is the use of cork and mineral wool insulation. These materials provide effective thermal protection, keeping the interior comfortable regardless of outside temperature changes. This environmentally friendly approach reduces electric consumption and supports sustainable living. The roof features solar panels that generate enough energy to allow residents to live off the grid, emphasizing the project’s commitment to energy independence.

Spatial Integration

There is a strong connection between indoors and outdoors in the design. The roof overhang protects the patio from direct sunlight, making it a comfortable area to enjoy during warmer months. Large windows in the living room let in plenty of natural light while promoting an inviting flow between the inside and outside. This integration encourages a lively atmosphere suitable for both relaxation and social gatherings.

Adaptability and Efficiency

The layout prioritizes adaptability with foldable divisions that allow the space to be used for various activities. This flexibility is essential for maintaining functionality in a compact environment. A large bookshelf divides the living room from the kitchen, serving as both a storage solution and a workspace. Such thoughtful design aids in maximizing the usability of every area, crucial in small living spaces.

Sustainable Systems

To strengthen its environment-friendly profile, the tiny house includes a rainwater collection system and a greywater recycling system, which help meet the water needs of residents while reducing reliance on public sources. The use of a dry-composting toilet showcases innovative solutions for sanitation, aligning with the overall goal of minimizing the ecological footprint.

The design showcases a complete understanding of the challenges in small living environments. Features like under-bed storage effectively address space limitations while maintaining aesthetic appeal. The combination of comfort and practicality creates a well-thought-out 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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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