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Gravity-Fed Rainwater Systems with Fire-Resistant Metal Skin in Modular Community Housing

Author:
Hafsa Burt
Gravity-Fed Rainwater Systems with Fire-Resistant Metal Skin in Modular Community Housing

Project in-detail

Constructed from shipping containers and enhanced with a fire-resistant metal skin, this modular community integrates gravity-fed rainwater systems to promote sustainable living in a collaborative housing environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using shipping containers to enhance modularity and flexibility.
02
Incorporates a unique gravity-fed rainwater harvesting system for efficient water management.
03
Features a durable fire-resistant metal skin for enhanced safety and thermal performance.
04
Operates on independent microgrids to ensure energy self-sufficiency.
05
Designed with expansive glass facades to maximize natural light and views.

The project presents a clear vision for sustainable community living, integrating modern modular construction with environmental principles. Located in a space that balances connection and privacy, the design aims to create a community that relies on renewable resources and promotes an eco-friendly lifestyle. The layout features public pathways alongside private areas, encouraging residents to engage with each other while enjoying their personal space.

Public and Private Spaces
The organization of public and private spaces is thoughtfully designed to enhance community interaction while preserving personal privacy. The public pathways weave through green areas, creating routes that encourage walking and socializing. This setup reduces the need for cars, inviting residents to spend more time outdoors and connect with nature and one another.

Modular Construction
The design employs modular building methods, which allow for flexible unit arrangements. Each floor contains eight units, organized in a way that responds to the site’s specific conditions. Shipping containers are used, which can be combined in various ways to form different configurations. This strategy makes construction more efficient and less wasteful, reducing costs and minimizing disruption to the surrounding area.

Energy and Water Management
Sustainable energy and water management are essential features of the community. Microgrids and solar panels provide energy independence, with each building connected to a dedicated microgrid that incorporates battery systems for backup. Rainwater harvesting is integrated into the design, utilizing a collection system placed at a higher elevation to allow gravity to move the water to where it is needed. Additionally, advanced wastewater systems connect to underground treatment solutions, underscoring the commitment to environmental responsibility.

Facade and Thermal Performance
The facade is constructed from fire-resistant metal, which enhances both durability and thermal insulation. R-50 insulation in the walls and ceilings significantly lowers energy needs for heating and cooling. Large glass windows dominate the facades, filling interiors with natural light while offering views of the elaborate landscape. This design choice strengthens the connection between indoor living and the natural environment surrounding the community.

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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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