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Geometric Microhome With Rainwater System and Synthetic Wood Facade

Authors:
Amilcar Perez, Diane Lan, Ariel Arosemena
Geometric Microhome With Rainwater System and Synthetic Wood Facade

Project in-detail

With a geometric shape and a sloped roof designed for efficient rainwater management, the microhome integrates synthetic wood cladding and modular living spaces to redefine compact urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rooftop design optimizes rainwater collection for irrigation and utilities.
02
Synthetic wood cladding contributes to durability and thermal performance.
03
Modular furniture allows flexible reconfiguration of living spaces.
04
Geometric form enhances natural light and airflow throughout the home.
05
Integration with surrounding natural landscapes promotes ecological harmony.

The ADA House Microhomes project is located in the Rufina Alfaro district of Panama, a place that combines nature and community. The design focuses on providing practical living solutions while connecting with the surrounding environment. The concept features a geometric shape with a sloped roof that effectively handles rainwater and captures sunlight. This compact living space combines style with functionality, promoting a sustainable way of life.

Design Concept

The layout is modular, offering flexibility in a small area. It includes vital living spaces such as a living room, kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom arranged for easy movement. Each area serves its purpose while contributing to a bright and open atmosphere. This design ensures comfort and convenience for everyday living without feeling cramped.

Relationship with Environment

The placement of the microhome encourages a connection with its natural surroundings, benefiting both residents and the local ecosystem. By incorporating elements from nearby forests and gardens, the design fosters an indoor-outdoor relationship. Priority is given to natural light and airflow, creating a pleasant living environment that relies less on mechanical cooling or heating.

Materials and Sustainability

Materials for the ADA House consist of metallic flashing, grass, topsoil, geotextile sheets, drain cells, geomembranes, and concrete slabs. Synthetic wood is used for ceilings and cladding to provide warmth. Insulating panels improve temperature control and reduce noise, making the spaces more livable. The design also includes a rainwater harvesting system, which helps supply water for gardening and toilets, highlighting the focus on sustainability.

Functional Design Elements

Inside, the focus on multifunctional furniture ensures that space is used effectively. Features can be rearranged to fit different needs, making the living experience adaptable. The design manages to balance shared and private areas, encouraging interaction while allowing personal space.

A key highlight is the roofed terrace, which offers protection from the weather while providing an enjoyable outdoor area for relaxation and social activities. This detail not only adds value to the living experience but also creates an inviting connection to the outdoor environment.

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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
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