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Farming Boxes and Solar Panels in Affordable Housing for Earthquake Survivors

Authors:
Ali Lavasani, Ashkan Delavarnejad, Yeganeh Borhani
Farming Boxes and Solar Panels in Affordable Housing for Earthquake Survivors
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With integrated farming boxes and solar panels, affordable housing is crafted for earthquake survivors in Iran, focusing on sustainability and rapid deployment to address urgent needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates farming boxes at the entrance for urban gardening.
02
Equipped with solar panels for energy efficiency and hot water.
03
Uses wood as the primary construction material for sustainability.
04
Features a sanitizer dispenser at the entrance for health safety.
05
Elevated design allows for integrated plumbing and drainage systems.

The project addresses the urgent issue of providing housing for earthquake survivors in Iran, a region often affected by natural disasters. The design concept focuses on creating affordable homes that can be built quickly for those who have lost their residences. By using prefabricated components, the approach allows for faster construction, which is crucial in emergency situations.

Layout and Functionality

The arrangement of space within the home includes three main areas: a living area that serves as a dining and working space, a kitchen, and a room with a bathroom. This design efficiently utilizes the available space and accommodates various daily activities. The layout ensures that each area serves a clear purpose while remaining flexible enough to adjust to the residents' needs.

Natural Ventilation and Sustainability

To meet the challenges of the hot and dry climate found in many parts of Iran, the design includes two windows and two doors that are positioned directly across from each other. This setup promotes natural cross-ventilation, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor atmosphere. Solar panels on the roof not only provide electricity but also supply hot water, contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the home.

Health Safety Considerations

Recent concerns about health and cleanliness have influenced the design approach. An automatic sanitizer dispenser is installed at the entrance, allowing residents and visitors to maintain hygiene as they enter the home. This feature reflects a thoughtful response to current health issues and aims to create a safe living environment.

Materiality and Accessibility

Wood is chosen as the primary material for the modular walls, emphasizing the use of locally available resources. This choice supports the local economy and keeps costs manageable. The design also elevates the living space approximately 70 cm above ground level. This elevation provides room for important infrastructure such as plumbing and drainage systems while ensuring that living areas remain functional.

Farming boxes, located at both the entrance and behind the kitchen window, allow residents to grow their own vegetables and integrate sustainability into their daily lives. This feature encourages self-sufficiency and reflects a commitment to supporting residents in a post-disaster context.

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Enter an open architecture
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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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