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Elevated Living Pod With Engineered Wood and Vertical Greenery

Authors:
Gia hana Lotzer, Ann-christin Timke, Chloe Hönisch gravel
Elevated Living Pod With Engineered Wood and Vertical Greenery

Project in-detail

An elevated structure clad in engineered wood and complemented by a vertical garden redefines compact living, creating a self-sufficient pod that integrates seamlessly into its hillside environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated on stilts to minimize ground disruption and enhance natural views.
02
Incorporates a living vertical garden for improved air quality and insulation.
03
Utilizes engineered wood sourced from sustainably managed forests.
04
Features a compact, multifunctional interior layout for efficient use of space.
05
Equipped with a greywater recycling system for water conservation.

The project "Nature Cube" embodies a fundamental shift in architectural design, prioritizing both sustainability and minimalism in a compact living space. Designed for a hillside location, the "Nature Cube" serves as a self-sufficient sleeping pod that merges seamlessly with its natural surroundings. This project emphasizes a smaller footprint while enhancing user experience and preserving ecological balance.

The architectural design features a cube-like form that utilizes engineered wood as the primary construction material. This choice not only provides aesthetic benefits but also contributes to lower carbon emissions compared to traditional materials like concrete and steel. Elevated on stilts, the structure minimizes ground disruption, allowing existing vegetation to thrive. Generous glazing across the façade permits natural light to penetrate deeper into the space, fostering a connection between occupants and the environment.

Compact Design with Functional Spaces

The "Nature Cube" maximizes efficiency through an open floor plan that creates multipurpose areas without sacrificing comfort. The central living space is designed for versatility, featuring high ceilings that promote natural ventilation. A strategically placed service area accommodates essential facilities while maintaining privacy, ensuring the living experience remains functional yet intimate.

Unique to this project is the integration of a vertical garden as part of the exterior cladding. This living facade not only enhances the building’s aesthetic appeal but also serves critical functions such as insulation, shade, and improved air quality. This design approach reflects a conscious effort to foster biodiversity, making the structure a part of the local ecosystem.

Sustainable Systems Implementation

With a keen focus on sustainability, the "Nature Cube" incorporates advanced water and energy systems. Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling address water conservation needs, promoting responsible resource use. Additionally, the inclusion of photovoltaic panels on the roof supports energy self-sufficiency by providing electricity for lighting and heating. This holistic approach to architectural design positions the "Nature Cube" as an exemplary model of eco-friendly living.

Those interested in exploring the "Nature Cube" project further should review the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs available for deeper insights into its innovative features and design strategies. This project not only highlights contemporary architectural practices but also sets a benchmark for future developments in similar contexts.

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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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