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Hydroponic Facade and Aerogel Insulation in Micro Living Solutions

Author:
Camilo Cerro
Hydroponic Facade and Aerogel Insulation in Micro Living Solutions
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With a hydroponic facade and aerogel insulation, these micro-apartments redefine urban living by offering sustainable self-sufficiency and efficient use of space for residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hydroponic facade integrates food production into urban living.
02
Aerogel insulation provides superior thermal efficiency in small spaces.
03
Prefabricated units streamline construction and reduce on-site waste.
04
Subterranean water tanks optimize space while ensuring self-sufficiency.
05
Tesla power-wall battery supports off-grid energy usage at night.

The design focuses on creating sustainable living spaces in an urban environment, specifically through the development of micro-apartments. These units are intended to support a high density of residents while also encouraging an eco-friendly lifestyle. The overall concept integrates various modern technologies to ensure self-sufficiency in energy, water, and food by creating living environments that are both functional and efficient.

Energy Solutions

Solar panels and solar heaters are used to provide hot water and electricity within the micro-apartments. Each unit features a Tesla power-wall battery, enabling residents to store energy for use at night. An atmospheric water generator (AWG) is included to convert humidity from the air into drinking water, greatly enhancing the units' self-sufficiency. This approach reduces reliance on municipal water systems and encourages a more sustainable way of living.

Water Management

Efficient water management is a key aspect of the design. The system incorporates grey water recycling and a rain catchment system, with collected water stored in tanks located underground. This strategic design helps to free up space within the living units while addressing essential water needs. The focus on reducing environmental impact ensures that the micro-apartments operate independently, catering to both practical and ecological concerns.

Interior Design and Space Utilization

Inside the micro-apartments, an open-plan layout is used to maximize the functional use of space. Built-in elements along the walls serve multiple purposes, including a murphy bed, seating, storage, and shelving. These features work together to create a compact yet comfortable living environment. The design also makes use of large windows, providing natural light and ventilation. This contributes to a pleasant atmosphere and ensures that the apartments are inviting spaces for residents.

Materiality and Structural Framework

Prefabrication techniques are employed to simplify the construction process, with a spider foundation system that can adapt to various types of ground. The exterior of the micro-apartments is cladded in metal, offering durability, while aerogel insulation enhances thermal performance. Inside, particle board is used for walls and surfaces, and bamboo flooring contributes to a warm and natural aesthetic. Hydroponic systems are also integrated into the design, allowing for vertical farming that supports food production, further emphasizing the project’s commitment to sustainability.

The design balances modern living with environmental awareness, creating small but meaningful spaces. It offers a practical solution to urban housing challenges while promoting a lifestyle that is conscious of resources and the surrounding environment.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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