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Geothermal Heating and Biofilter Integration in a Compact Microhouse

Authors:
Geuncheol Ha, Hyunmyung Kim, Seong ryeong Kim, minjae An
Geothermal Heating and Biofilter Integration in a Compact Microhouse

Project in-detail

Incorporating a movable bedroom module and a rainwater biofilter system, this compact microhouse offers innovative solutions for sustainable living in a limited footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a movable bedroom module for flexible space use.
02
Features a rainwater biofilter for sustainable water management.
03
Utilizes solar panels for energy self-sufficiency.
04
Includes geothermal heating for efficient climate control.
05
Designed with a hexagonal shape to optimize spatial efficiency.

The Hexa_Zone microhouse takes a thoughtful approach to compact living, addressing the growing demand for efficient and sustainable housing solutions. Situated in a suburban area, the design highlights the importance of utilizing a small footprint to create a comfortable and practical home environment. The overall concept revolves around the idea that a smaller space can provide the same sense of comfort typically found in larger homes.

Design Concept and Layout

The structure features a hexagonal shape, allowing for maximum use of space while being economical in material consumption. It is organized into six functional zones: an entrance, toilet, kitchen, deck, bedroom, and study. These zones are interconnected by a multifunctional area that promotes easy movement and adaptability among the spaces. This layout ensures that each part of the home can serve multiple purposes, making it flexible for daily tasks.

Movable Module

A key highlight of the design is the movable module that serves as a bedroom. Positioned above the deck, this module can rotate and shift in front of the porch, providing a unique way to engage with both indoor and outdoor areas. This feature not only enhances the overall usability of the home but also offers a fresh perspective on how spaces can interact with each other.

Sustainable Features

Sustainability is a central theme of the microhouse, with a rainwater purification system that incorporates a biofilter for effective treatment of water. This system provides clean water for everyday use, which is an important aspect of resource management. Energy needs are met with solar panels that generate electricity, paired with a solar water heater that offers hot water. Together, these elements contribute to a self-sufficient energy model, lessening environmental impact.

Heating and Mobility

The indoor environment is further improved with a geothermal heating system that keeps the space warm during colder periods. This system circulates heat throughout the areas, ensuring comfort for residents. Additionally, the project encourages the use of electric kickboards for local travel, promoting eco-friendly transportation in the suburban context.

The design incorporates thoughtful storage solutions, allowing residents to keep essential items organized and accessible. Each aspect of the microhouse is carefully planned to balance functionality with a practical approach to living in small spaces. Attention to detail shows that effective design can enhance the quality of life, even in compact environments.

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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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