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Elevated Pods With Greywater Recycling and Natural Wood Integration

Authors:
Neil Capangpangan, N. isaiah Capangpangan
Elevated Pods With Greywater Recycling and Natural Wood Integration

Project in-detail

Elevated above the landscape, the cocoon-shaped pods utilize greywater recycling and natural wood to create sustainable retreats that encourage deep connections with the surrounding environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cocoon shapes mimic the natural life cycle of a caterpillar.
02
Each pod is elevated on stilts to minimize land disruption.
03
Greywater recycling system irrigates the surrounding landscape.
04
Pods are oriented for optimal solar exposure throughout the year.
05
Natural wood materials enhance the connection with the environment.

"The Cocoons" is an architectural design located on the slopes of Vale De Moses, featuring a series of shaped pods designed as retreats for relaxation and reflection. Inspired by the life cycle of a caterpillar in its cocoon, the concept focuses on the connection between individuals and their natural surroundings. Each pod is positioned to harness sunlight, enhancing energy efficiency while creating a pleasant atmosphere for guests.

SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES

The layout of the pods emphasizes an open arrangement that allows for easy access while maintaining a degree of privacy. Inside each cocoon, a sleeping area is combined with a bathroom, which is designed to recycle greywater for irrigating nearby plants. This method promotes water conservation and supports the local ecosystem, highlighting the project’s commitment to sustainability.

STRUCTURAL DESIGN

The architecture of "The Cocoons" features a light, airy design that allows the pods to appear as if they are floating above the ground. This elevated position reduces the impact on existing vegetation and enhances the views from the terraces. The structure is supported by stilts anchored to a concrete foundation, creating a strong connection to the surrounding landscape and providing guests with an immersive experience in nature.

MATERIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Sustainable wood materials are used for the framework of the pods, reflecting a focus on ecological responsibility. Additional design elements include vapor barrier underlayment and insulation, which help improve the thermal performance of the structures. These carefully chosen materials contribute to the durability and efficacy of the pods while aligning with the overarching sustainable goals of the project.

The design features varying forms and heights that create distinct experiences, encouraging visitors to engage with the environment while enjoying the comforts of contemporary design. Each pod offers a unique refuge that captures the essence of its natural setting.

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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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