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Elevated Living with CLT and Sustainable Rainwater Solutions

Authors:
Vasos Sokratous, Christodoulos Iosif
Elevated Living with CLT and Sustainable Rainwater Solutions

Project in-detail

Combining elevated living structures with cross-laminated timber and integrated rainwater systems, this design offers compact housing tailored for young adults in an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Each housing unit features a modular design with two interconnected cubes for flexible living arrangements.
02
Elevated platforms are used to reduce ground impact and humidity issues.
03
Integrated rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems enhance sustainability.
04
The design includes dedicated sanitizing stations at entrances for health and safety.
05
Provisions for pet ownership accommodate a community-oriented lifestyle.

The 2CUBE project in Limassol, Cyprus, offers a fresh approach to housing, specifically designed for young adults facing financial difficulties. The design responds to the pressing demand for affordable living spaces in an area where high costs and economic challenges make independent living hard to achieve. The concept revolves around two connected cubes, aimed at maximizing space and providing flexible living options for residents.

Modularity and Functionality

Each cube measures twelve square meters and is linked by a narrow corridor. This clever arrangement allows for different uses within a compact footprint. Residents can choose various layouts to create distinct areas for living, working, cooking, and sleeping. By dividing these sections, the design enhances the overall utility of the space and meets the varied needs of its users in a bustling urban setting.

Sustainability Features

A focus on sustainability runs through the entire design. Elevated platforms are used to reduce ground disturbance and help with humidity control. Prefabricated CLT wood panels are chosen to keep construction efficient while aligning with environmental standards. Along with this, the project includes rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems, which are essential in a region facing water shortages. These features demonstrate a commitment to reducing environmental impact while providing practical solutions.

Health and Safety Considerations

Health and safety play key roles in the design approach. Each unit is equipped with sanitizing stations at the entrance, addressing hygiene concerns that have become increasingly important in recent times. The layout also separates indoor areas with a dedicated hallway, allowing for personal space and comfort. This attention to safety ensures that residents can feel secure in their homes.

Access and Community Integration

The project's location is strategically chosen, close to business districts and essential services. This gives residents quick access to job opportunities and amenities. Additional features, such as spaces for pets and designated parking, support a sense of community while encouraging sustainable transportation methods.

Every aspect of design incorporates solutions that enable easy adjustment, aiming to make small spaces functional and personal. The focus is not just on shelter; it’s about creating a livable, supportive environment for young individuals starting their journey in an urban lifestyle.

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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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