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Hydroponic Garden and Polycarbonate Facade in Micro-Housing Solution

Authors:
Yusuma Ponnsmith, Kitsupphat Na lampang, Ye Tong
Hydroponic Garden and Polycarbonate Facade in Micro-Housing Solution

Project in-detail

Combining a frustum-shaped roof with a hydroponic garden and multi-functional interiors, this micro-housing solution addresses urban living through sustainable practices and efficient use of space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Micro-housing model utilizing a frustum-shaped roof for rainwater collection.
02
Features a multi-functional shelf that integrates storage and hydroponic gardening.
03
Incorporates flexible curtain systems to adjust privacy and airflow.
04
Heating system includes a bathtub to warm both bathing and sleeping areas.
05
Designed specifically for the Baltic climate, addressing seasonal challenges.

The Theater House offers a thoughtful approach to urban living challenges within a busy city marked by rising housing costs and neglected spaces. The design aims to create an alternative living experience that balances privacy with opportunities for community interaction. Drawing from the idea of theatricality, it incorporates varied spatial elements to enrich everyday life, making the ordinary engaging and enjoyable.

Spatial Organization

The design divides the residence into three distinct stages, each with its own specific function. This layered arrangement maximizes usable space while allowing for individualized living experiences. The changes in height provide privacy and create zones for interaction, promoting a sense of community among residents.

Multi-functional Integration

A key feature of the Theater House is the multi-functional shelf, which serves as the "backstage." This shelf combines several functions, including storage, maintenance, and a hydroponic garden. Such integration uses the compact living area wisely. A ladder leading to the bathroom highlights an innovative approach to utilizing limited space effectively.

Adaptable Privacy Solutions

Two curtain systems are incorporated into the design to allow for changes in privacy. These systems enable residents to control visibility and airflow in their living spaces, catering to their needs on a daily basis. This flexibility can enhance comfort, as people adjust the indoor environment according to the weather or time of day.

Sustainable Features

Sustainability is a core principle in the Theater House, specifically considering the Baltic climate. The heating system includes a bathtub that serves to warm both the bathing area and the sleeping space above. A rainwater collection system, integrated into the unique roof design, channels water into hydroponic shelves before it moves to a filtered water tank.

Natural light filters through large windows, illuminating the interior and creating a connection with the outside world, while the textured surfaces of the exterior offer a tactile quality that invites exploration.

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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

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