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Corten Steel Tiny Home with Integrated Water Management

Authors:
Ji Sun, Emily Kaing, Lilit Houlder
Corten Steel Tiny Home with Integrated Water Management
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Constructed with Corten steel and designed for efficient water management, the tiny home redefines urban living by integrating sustainable practices within a compact footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using Corten steel panels for durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates a passive water management system to capture and reuse rainfall.
03
Features a compact footprint of 5m x 5m, maximizing urban space efficiency.
04
Includes diverse garden spaces that promote biodiversity and ecological health.
05
Designed with energy efficiency in mind, utilizing solar panel structures.

The design project located in Downtown Calgary presents a modern response to urban living in a challenging climate. It introduces a compact tiny home focused on sustainability and effective water management. The concept highlights the importance of water as both a vital resource and a challenge in urban settings, specifically addressing the arid conditions of Calgary.

Water Management

At the core of the design is a well-thought-out water management system that captures, purifies, and reuses rainfall. This approach aims to prevent flooding while promoting responsible use of water resources. By emphasizing passive systems, the design connects with the local landscape, integrating water flow into daily life.

Spatial Organization

The tiny home is built within a compact footprint of 5m x 5m. The layout is designed efficiently to accommodate necessary living spaces. It includes an open living room and kitchen that support social interactions, while a separate bedroom space and workspace cater to privacy and productivity. Essential features like a bathroom and a deck enhance comfort and utility.

Landscape Integration

Outdoor space is an essential part of the design. The project includes various types of gardens, such as rain gardens, vegetable gardens, ornamental gardens, and high shrub gardens. These elements not only add beauty but also promote ecological health. By combining private and public garden spaces, the design encourages residents to connect with nature and foster community relationships.

Materials chosen for the structure include Corten steel panels, metal solar panel structures, and concrete. These materials provide durability and efficiency. They help the home withstand Calgary's weather while also contributing to energy savings.

The attentive approach to water management, spatial efficiency, and landscape design results in a solution that addresses modern living challenges. It creates an environment where residents can thrive while being mindful of their ecological footprint.

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Enter an open architecture
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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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