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Hempcrete Microhome with Adaptive Furniture and Rainwater System

Author:
Andy Donlin
Hempcrete Microhome with Adaptive Furniture and Rainwater System

Project in-detail

Constructed with hempcrete and featuring a rainwater collection system, this microhome offers an adaptable living experience that harmonizes with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printed walls filled with hempcrete for enhanced insulation.
02
Incorporates a multifunctional desk that transforms into a bed.
03
Features a complete rainwater collection and filtration system.
04
Maximizes natural light through strategically placed large openings.
05
Constructed with a CNC machined roof assembly for structural precision.

The architectural design represents a microhome located in the suburb of Tampa, Florida. It aims to provide a sustainable solution for modern housing needs. The design focuses on maximizing natural light and enhancing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. By deviating from typical home shapes, it creates a more dynamic interaction with the natural environment.

Material Efficiency

3D printed walls are a central feature of the microhome. These walls are created in sections at the sills and headers, and the spaces between them are filled with hempcrete, a sustainable insulation material. This method reduces waste and enhances the overall structural performance. Such an approach demonstrates a fresh perspective on building techniques that prioritize ecological responsibility throughout construction.

Natural Light and Spatial Dynamics

Large openings in the design allow plenty of daylight into the living spaces, effectively merging indoor and outdoor areas. The use of double glazed windows improves thermal performance while providing views of the surroundings, making the interior feel bright and spacious. This focus on natural light enhances the quality of living, ensuring the spaces are comfortable despite their compact dimensions.

Adaptive Living Solutions

Flexibility is key in the microhome's design, with multifunctional furniture that adapts to different occupant needs. One example is a desk that can transform into a bed, showcasing clever use of limited space. This design promotes a practical living environment, addressing the varied demands of everyday life while emphasizing simplicity and efficiency.

Sustainable Water Management

Sustainable features include a rainwater collection system with filtration, highlighting a commitment to responsible water usage. This system minimizes reliance on municipal water supplies and amplifies the home’s ecological benefits. The effective capture of rainwater is supported by a well-designed gutter system that integrates neatly into the overall architecture.

The roof assembly is crafted using CNC machining for precise construction. It includes additional insulation made from hemp wool, which further enhances energy efficiency. The overhang also serves to protect the space below while playing an important role in capturing rainwater, reinforcing the microhome's commitment to sustainability.

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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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