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Indoor Farming and Rainwater Irrigation in a Timber Elevation

Author:
Olivia Dewi
Indoor Farming and Rainwater Irrigation in a Timber Elevation

Project in-detail

Timber framing and an innovative indoor farming system enhance self-sufficiency and sustainability in a small, elevated residence designed for young professionals.
5 key facts about this project
01
Indoor farming integrated with rainwater irrigation supports self-sufficient living.
02
Elevated structure optimizes land use and adapts to rising property costs.
03
Extruded windows provide seating and reduce heat gain from the evening sun.
04
Multifunctional furniture maximizes space efficiency for residents.
05
Timber framing aligns with local building traditions while ensuring durability.

The Pole House is positioned in Queensland, Australia, in a striking natural landscape characterized by its expansive beauty. Designed to meet the housing needs of young professionals, the project offers a practical and affordable living solution away from crowded urban environments. The design embraces a concept that focuses on functionality, efficient use of space, and a connection to the surrounding environment.

Flexibility and Efficiency

The layout emphasizes flexible living areas that cater to the needs of smaller households. Communal spaces, such as the kitchen and living room, are arranged to encourage interaction while separate areas are designated for privacy, including bedrooms and workspaces. This thoughtful organization reflects the current trends in living, where multifunctional spaces are becoming increasingly important.

Natural Light and Thermal Comfort

The design carefully uses windows to let in natural light and control heat. Extruded windows enhance the living area by providing both light and shading from the harsh evening sun. This approach helps maintain a comfortable temperature inside. The building is oriented toward the east, allowing morning light to benefit the indoor farming area, promoting wellness and productivity.

Sustainable Living

A standout feature of the Pole House is its focus on sustainability, highlighted by an indoor farming system that uses filtered rainwater for irrigation. This setup reduces the need for purchased food, allowing residents to grow their own vegetables right at home. The design also includes practical kitchen appliances and ample storage, making efficient use of the space.

Materiality and Structural Design

The materials selected for the structure draw from local traditions and promise durability. Timber is used for window frames and walls, while metal cladding contributes to the building's protective features. By elevating the structure, the design preserves the surrounding natural environment and addresses rising land costs. Access is gained through stairs enclosed within a central pole that features a round door designed for visual appeal and functionality.

The Pole House also incorporates built-in furniture that serves multiple roles. A sofa that converts into a bed and a dining table that doubles as a workspace highlight the adaptable nature of the space. These thoughtful design details ensure that comfort and practicality coexist within a small footprint.

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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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