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Hydrophobic Roofs and Photovoltaic Solutions in Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
Kathryn Larsen, William Qian
Hydrophobic Roofs and Photovoltaic Solutions in Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing hydrophobic roofs and integrated photovoltaic systems, the design offers a sustainable urban living solution that enhances resource management and community engagement in Copenhagen.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes low-energy IoT sensors for enhanced energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates hydrophobic roofing for improved water management.
03
Features a compact microhome typology designed for high density.
04
Promotes community engagement through shared resource management systems.
05
Sits adjacent to the Amager Fælled, preserving vital green space.

Tommelisehuse is located in Copenhagen and aims to create sustainable urban living while protecting the important green area of Amager Fælled, which faces the risk of development. The design uses traditional Danish housing as its foundation, incorporating modern architectural practices and technologies. The goal is to balance urban density with natural elements, fostering community involvement and environmental care.

Architectural Concept

The design draws inspiration from the Danish Bondehus, offering a modern take on a cultural classic. It addresses contemporary housing needs by introducing microhome typologies that can accommodate around 2000 people on just 5 hectares. This arrangement promotes dense living while being mindful of the surrounding environment.

Sustainability Framework

A key part of the project is its strong sustainability framework, featuring both the House of Solar and the House of Water. The House of Solar utilizes low-energy Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, which help create a connected living environment. This arrangement improves energy efficiency and allows for real-time monitoring of energy use. By implementing these technologies, the design aims to lessen the overall impact on the environment while ensuring residents’ comfort.

Resource Management

The House of Water focuses on effective resource use, integrating systems that promote water efficiency and storage. This part of the design aims to reduce water waste and encourage sustainable habits among residents. It tackles the challenges of urban water management, making sure the project supports the needs of its community while prioritizing environmental responsibility.

Technical Details

Photovoltaic cell panels and hydrophobic coating roofs are key features, enhancing the energy performance of the homes. These technologies contribute to the self-sufficiency of the microhomes and reflect a commitment to sustainable practices. The layout and architectural details emphasize thoughtful interaction with both social and environmental contexts, positioning Tommelisehuse as a model for future urban developments.

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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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