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Crafting Community Spaces with Thermal Water Systems and the Areca Plant

Authors:
Elena sofia Congiu, Miguel angel Valverde hernandez
Crafting Community Spaces with Thermal Water Systems and the Areca Plant

Project in-detail

Utilizing thermal water systems and incorporating the Areca plant, the design harmoniously blends agricultural productivity with community spaces for food preparation and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Thermal water systems enhance energy efficiency throughout the building.
02
Greenhouse incorporates local biodiversity by allowing foreign plant growth.
03
Distinct thermal comfort zones are created using passive design strategies.
04
Community spaces are intentionally oriented to maximize sunlight exposure.
05
The design features a wall radiation system for effective heating management.

The project presents an integrated approach to functionality and sustainability within the context of agriculture. It addresses the needs of its environment while creating a balance between living and working spaces. The design focuses on thermal comfort and engages a variety of activities, showcasing how modern architecture can complement traditional practices in farming.

Thermal Comfort Zones
- Distinct thermal comfort zones are designed to cater to the different activities that take place in the building. Passive techniques such as the use of thermal water systems and specific color choices help optimize thermal conditions. Measures to protect from the elements encourage layering in clothing, which contributes to natural comfort and improved well-being for those within the space.

Spatial Arrangement
- Food preparation areas, including reception, dining, and multipurpose spaces, are positioned to make the most of sunlight. The choice of a south-facing orientation is essential for maximizing exposure to solar energy, aiding both energy efficiency and user comfort. The careful layout fosters interaction between agricultural production and daily living, enhancing the functionality of the space.

Greenhouse Integration
- The greenhouse is a prominent element that allows for growing various vegetables and flowers for the local market. This integration not only serves practical purposes but also introduces biodiversity to the area. The design is adaptable, accommodating foreign plant species even in harsher climates, which showcases its resilience and adaptability.

Ecological and Material Considerations
- Vegetation is thoughtfully chosen to enhance indoor air quality, featuring plants like the Areca and the Mother-in-Law's Tongue. These selections support a healthy indoor environment and reflect a commitment to natural design principles. Material choices, including down jackets and wool, serve to enhance warmth and comfort, acting as elements of thermal management.

Among the design details, a wall radiation system effectively increases heating surface area through a corrugated façade. This approach achieves a practical balance between environmental efficiency and occupant comfort.

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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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