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Elevated Living with Three Levels and Rainwater Integration

Authors:
Iwona Redlinska, Pawel Redlinski
Elevated Living with Three Levels and Rainwater Integration

Project in-detail

With a focus on three distinct levels and an integrated rainwater management system, the design fosters a strong connection to the natural environment while providing functional living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Three distinct levels provide varied interaction with nature.
02
Rainwater is collected and managed through an integrated system.
03
North-facing windows maximize solar gain and natural light.
04
Flexible storage solutions maintain a minimal interior environment.
05
The upper platform offers unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.

OZOLINI is a cabin located near Lake Bezdibene, designed to integrate with its natural surroundings. This structure provides a comfortable living space while focusing on sustainability and functionality. The cabin features three levels, each serving a distinct purpose, allowing for both communal and private activities. The overall design concept emphasizes a deep connection with nature, encouraging occupants to embrace the outdoors.

Design Concept

The design centers around a three-level arrangement that maximizes solar gain. Windows and panels are oriented towards the north, ensuring that the space is filled with natural light while promoting energy efficiency. The first level serves as a public area, encouraging social interaction. The second level focuses on essential living functions such as food preparation and hygiene. The third level offers a space where occupants can engage with the natural environment, creating a unique experience.

Functional Organization

The first level provides open spaces that connect directly with the outdoors. This layout supports social activities and cultivates a sense of community among occupants. The second level is dedicated to practical needs, featuring areas for cooking and maintaining comfortable living conditions. This thoughtful arrangement highlights the importance of functionality in everyday life, making it easier for occupants to perform necessary tasks.

Key Features

A variety of key features enhance the usability and appeal of the cabin. Essential elements include a kitchen sink, cabinets, and a fireplace, all carefully integrated into the design. Ample storage options help maintain organization in the living space, reflecting a straightforward and clean aesthetic. These practical details contribute to a calm environment, allowing occupants to focus on their experiences within the cabin.

Water Management System

An efficient water management system is a vital part of the design. Rainwater is collected in a tank situated below the cabin and is pumped to hot and cold tanks in the attic. Supplementary solar heaters provide hot water for daily use. A fireplace connects to a hot tub, allowing for easy access to warm water while reducing energy consumption. This system represents a commitment to sustainability, ensuring that the cabin operates harmoniously with its environment.

On the upper level, an expansive platform invites occupants to enjoy the surrounding landscape, enhancing their appreciation for nature. This thoughtful design element creates a tranquil space where one can unwind, reflecting the project's focus on connection to 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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