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Harnessing Humidity for Sustainable Living in a Compact Microhome

Author:
Tyler Thompson
Harnessing Humidity for Sustainable Living in a Compact Microhome
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Utilizing humidity captured from daily activities, the design incorporates a greenhouse into a compact microhome, providing sustainable living solutions for a young professional couple.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed for off-grid living, emphasizing sustainability.
02
Incorporates a greenhouse that utilizes bathroom humidity.
03
Includes a second floor to enhance usable space and views.
04
Features large windows for natural light and privacy.
05
Utilizes a sliding barn door to save interior space.

The Sun House is a compact microhome designed for a young professional couple living off-grid. It occupies less than 267 square feet, making efficient use of space while maintaining a sense of comfort. The design focuses on maximizing functionality without sacrificing connection to the natural surroundings.

Design Elements and Spatial Organization

A key feature of the Sun House is its second floor, which enhances the living space. This vertical expansion offers better views and areas where occupants can gather. Large windows on this upper level allow natural light to flow into the home and provide views of the nearby lake to the north. The careful placement of windows creates an open feel, promoting a connection between the interior and the outside while ensuring the upstairs bedroom remains private.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is an important aspect of the design, evidenced by a greenhouse located on the east side of the microhome. This greenhouse is attached to the bathroom, allowing it to use the humidity produced during showers. By directing this moisture into the greenhouse, the design captures potential waste and turns it into a resource. The ventilation system that opens into the greenhouse not only improves air circulation but also contributes to effective water management, supporting plant growth.

Interior Layout and Functionality

The layout inside the Sun House has been carefully planned to prioritize ease of movement and usability. The inclusion of a sliding barn door for the bathroom reflects this thoughtful design, providing easy access while saving space. Such features enhance the overall efficiency of the home, creating a comfortable living environment. Each element is designed with purpose, making the best use of limited space.

Large windows on both levels allow sunlight and fresh air into the home, reinforcing the connection to nature. This simple yet effective design detail highlights the intention to create a pleasant living atmosphere within a small footprint.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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