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EcoRock Grey-Water Systems in Compact Living Spaces

Authors:
Manali Deshpande, Vatsala Shukla, Yunus Kasu
EcoRock Grey-Water Systems in Compact Living Spaces

Project in-detail

The integration of EcoRock grey-water systems and modular design elements defines a new approach to efficient living, creating adaptable tiny homes tailored for urban environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Easily configurable 2x2 grid layout allows personalized arrangement.
02
Built and unbuilt areas create visual connectivity and openness.
03
EcoRock grey-water system promotes sustainable water management.
04
Customizable modular components enhance adaptability for different users.
05
Integration of structural waterproofing for long-term durability.

The project focuses on tiny homes, which aim to tackle the challenges of urban living through efficient use of space and sustainable solutions. The design is set against the backdrop of growing urbanization, where spacious living is becoming increasingly rare. By emphasizing modularity and personalization, the approach seeks to create adaptable environments that cater to diverse lifestyles, all within a limited footprint.

Modular Design

The design incorporates a base that can be divided into four equal squares. This modular framework promotes flexibility and encourages users to customize the layout to fit their needs. Arranging these squares in a 2x2 grid allows for various configurations, optimizing every inch of the space. Such adaptability makes the tiny home a suitable choice for different occupants, each with their personal preferences.

Integration of Spaces

Built and unbuilt areas are skillfully integrated, enhancing functionality while maintaining a sense of openness. Essential amenities are housed in the built spaces, while the unbuilt areas create a feeling of expanded living. This balance between inside and outside helps to bring in natural light and airflow, contributing to a comfortable atmosphere despite the home's compact size.

Sustainability Features

A notable element of the design is the EcoRock Grey-water Filtration System. This system effectively manages water waste, showcasing a commitment to environmentally friendly practices. By addressing the responsible use of water resources, the design reflects a broader trend toward sustainable living, which is increasingly important in today's world.

Diverse Housing Concepts

The project explores various housing concepts like The Garden House, The House Factory, The Easy Home, The Social Home, The Culinary Home, and The Artist Home. Each concept is tailored to meet specific lifestyle needs, demonstrating the flexibility inherent in the modular design. These varied approaches highlight how tiny homes can provide comfort and utility in different ways while remaining effective living solutions.

Careful attention to detail is evident throughout the design, where each aspect contributes to an enhanced living experience. From customizable layouts to systems that support sustainability, the overall design serves as a practical model for modern living without compromising on quality or 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

Enter an open architecture
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