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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
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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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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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