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Healing Space with Water Vessel and Black Metal Facade

Authors:
Yee foo Lai, Chengcheng Huang, Jessica Chang, Douglas Lee
Healing Space with Water Vessel and Black Metal Facade

Project in-detail

A central water vessel captures rainwater and establishes a tranquil environment, while black metal cladding and timber panels enhance the building's sustainability as a dedicated healing space in a tropical setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central water vessel is designed for rainwater collection and healing.
02
Black metal cladding enhances durability while offering a unique aesthetic.
03
Timber panels create warmth and contrast with the exterior materials.
04
Retractable staircase maximizes space efficiency in the living areas.
05
Sound of trickling water provides a calming auditory experience indoors.

The Water House is designed for a tropical setting that experiences heavy rainfall. Inspired by ancient bathhouses, the dwelling embraces water as an essential part of daily life rather than something to be avoided. The overall concept focuses on deepening the connection between the inhabitants and nature, using water to enhance both the design and the experience of living within the space.

Water Integration

At the heart of the design is a central water vessel meant for healing. Rainwater is collected and funneled into a designated shower area, creating a space that feels refreshing and reinvigorating. Natural light streams in from an opening in the roof, bridging the indoors and outdoors. The gentle sound of water trickling against the metal creates an atmosphere that is calming and peaceful, inviting occupants to engage with their surroundings.

Sustainability Features

The Water House includes a well-thought-out system for managing and recycling rainwater. Key elements of this system are a rainwater collection tank, a rain waterfall feature, and a filtration tank that utilizes UV sterilization and chlorination. These components allow for efficient water usage across different needs, including bathing, cooking, and sanitation. By ensuring that wastewater is safely treated and discharged, the design supports responsible consumption of resources.

Structural Components

The construction details of the Water House reveal a pragmatic approach to maintaining both function and aesthetics. A light shaft features a drop-down shower curtain, offering flexibility in the shower area. Overflow drainage manages excess water, preventing any unwanted accumulation. The use of light gauge steel for the structural framework, alongside hardwood flooring, creates a comfortable and functional living space. Interior timber paneling adds warmth, while the black galvanized metal external cladding provides durability and a cohesive look.

Spatial Organization

The layout is carefully arranged to promote utility and comfort. Dedicated areas for showering, cooking, studying, sleeping, and toilet functions are easily accessible. A retractable staircase serves as both an entrance and an efficient use of space when not in use. This organization reflects a commitment to creating an environment that is user-friendly while allowing for a direct interaction with nature, enhancing the overall living experience.

Natural light flows into the space through strategically placed openings, changing the ambiance throughout the day and highlighting the natural beauty of the materials used.

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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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