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Elevated Cube With Engineered Bamboo and Vertical Farming Solutions

Authors:
Djordje Radovic, Luka Papan
Elevated Cube With Engineered Bamboo and Vertical Farming Solutions

Project in-detail

Elevated above the ground, this compact microhome showcases engineered bamboo and a vertical farming system, creating a self-sufficient living space that seamlessly integrates with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure allows for integrated external facilities and parking.
02
Vertical farming system fosters food production in a compact footprint.
03
Transformable interior spaces enhance adaptability for various uses.
04
Strategic window placement optimizes natural light and ventilation.
05
Engineered bamboo contributes to sustainability and structural integrity.

The CACATOO LODGE Microhome serves as a comfortable space for isolated living, positioned away from the busy urban setting. This compact, cube-shaped dwelling emphasizes self-sufficiency and a strong connection to nature. The design fosters a lifestyle where people can escape their daily routines, allowing for a peaceful retreat that harmonizes with the environment.

Design Concept
The form of the microhome is characterized by a simple cube structure that is elevated above the ground. This elevation distinguishes the building visually and allows for the integration of necessary external facilities and parking spaces, enhancing its overall functionality. The design captures essential aspects of modern living while maximizing the use of the surrounding land.

Spatial Arrangement
The microhome is oriented northeast-southwest to take advantage of natural light throughout the day. This careful positioning lets morning sunlight brighten the interior, while sloped windows help keep excessive heat out during warmer days. High windows above the central area promote natural airflow, creating a comfortable atmosphere inside. Each room is designed for flexibility, allowing spaces such as the bedroom to transform into an area for yoga or a living area to serve as a workspace.

Sustainability Features
Sustainability is a central theme in this design. The roof terrace features a vertical garden for growing food, enhancing the self-sufficiency of the home. Additionally, rainwater collection systems are strategically placed to capture runoff, allowing for efficient water use and conservation.

Materials
The materials chosen for the microhome focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Engineered bamboo products are used for the structure, providing both strength and environmental benefits. Sheep wool serves as insulation, helping meet energy performance standards. This selection of materials aims to create a low-impact living environment.

The CACATOO LODGE illustrates the potential of living in smaller spaces, blending comfort with practicality. The careful combination of adaptable areas and environmentally friendly features results in a home that encourages a strong relationship with the outdoors.

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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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