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Cross-Laminated Timber and Clay Plaster Create a Sustainable Microhabitat Embracing Aquaponics

Cross-Laminated Timber and Clay Plaster Create a Sustainable Microhabitat Embracing Aquaponics
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Emphasizing cross-laminated timber and clay plaster, this microhome integrates an aquaponic system within its design, promoting sustainable living while facilitating community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes an integrated aquaponic system to support food sustainability.
02
Incorporates a central pond that enhances biodiversity within the living space.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetics.
04
Employs renewable cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
05
Integrates vertical gardens to maximize space and promote permaculture practices.

### Overview
The Symbiotic Microhome is located in a landscape characterized by heathland and forest, designed to establish a sustainable living environment aligned with ecological systems. This project aims to accommodate residents while promoting biodiversity and ecological balance through thoughtful architectural interventions.

### Spatial and Functional Layout
The design features a distinctive architectural form, combining rounded and angular shapes that enhance both aesthetics and functionality. A central aquaponic pond serves as a focal point, contributing to food production while symbolizing unity within the community. Additionally, optional greenhouse spaces enable year-round vegetable cultivation, reinforcing the connection to local food systems and ecological awareness.

### Material Choices and Sustainability
The material selection is carefully curated to reflect sustainable practices. Wood sourced from renewable resources is employed for structural components and cladding, ensuring thermal efficiency and harmony with the surrounding landscape. Clay plaster enhances indoor air quality and thermal regulation, while the incorporation of recyclable materials minimizes waste at the end of their life cycle. These choices not only support the structural integrity of the microhome but also emphasize the commitment to environmental stewardship.

### Features and Community Engagement
An innovative aquaponics system is central to the microhome's design, leveraging the symbiotic relationships between plants, fish, and bacteria to maximize food production with minimal water use. Furthermore, communal areas are integrated to promote social interaction and resource sharing among residents, fostering a sense of community that counters typical suburban isolation. The architectural framework encourages educational opportunities, demonstrating sustainable living practices for both residents and visitors.

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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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