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Flexible Living with PV Thermal Collectors and Greywater Systems

Authors:
Adil ahmet bahadır Sezer, Selcan ezgi Şen, Bartu Lokumcu
Flexible Living with PV Thermal Collectors and Greywater Systems

Project in-detail

Utilizing foldable furniture and greywater systems, the design offers a self-sufficient living environment powered by PV thermal collectors, adaptable to the changing needs of its residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Flexible folding furniture allows for customizable living arrangements.
02
Hybrid PV thermal collectors provide both electricity and hot water.
03
Innovative greywater systems recycle water for reuse.
04
Structure can be adapted for both land and sea environments.
05
Strategically placed glass maximizes natural light and views.

The Folding House is an architectural concept that combines flexibility and sustainability, situated in an environment affected by the challenges of pollution and climate change, particularly near the Marmara Sea. This residential structure responds to the needs of modern living by offering adaptable spaces. By limiting fixed furniture to essential wet areas and storage, the design emphasizes an open interior that can easily change to meet the varied needs of its inhabitants.

Design Concept

At the core of the design is the idea of creating open, uninterrupted space. The use of foldable furniture that operates through a rail system allows residents to customize their living area. Users can reshape their surroundings as required, making it possible to accommodate different activities or family dynamics within a single setting.

Energy and Sustainability

The house operates off the grid, using hybrid PV thermal collectors to generate its own electricity. These systems also provide hot water for a radiant heating system, which contributes to energy efficiency. By relying on renewable energy sources, the design reduces dependence on external utilities and highlights a commitment to sustainable living.

Material and Performance

The structure is built with a steel framework, ensuring strength and durability. Triple glazed low-e glass panels are employed throughout to improve thermal performance, helping to keep indoor temperatures stable. Clear glass is strategically placed to allow ample natural light into the home, creating a bright and welcoming environment. Foldable components further enhance the versatility of the space, allowing homeowners to arrange their interior as they see fit.

Water Management Systems

A key feature of the design is its approach to water management. The house purifies seawater to provide drinking and tap water, supporting self-sufficiency. Additionally, greywater generated from everyday activities is collected and reused within the system. This efficient use of resources reflects a forward-thinking strategy for sustainable living.

The Folding House represents a practical response to modern challenges in residential design. It prioritizes adaptability and efficiency while addressing environmental concerns. This offers a living experience that embraces both comfort and responsibility, highlighting the importance of thoughtful design.

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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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