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Integrating Greenery and Rainwater Collection Within a Glass Facade

Authors:
Julia Koželj, Ajda Murnik
Integrating Greenery and Rainwater Collection Within a Glass Facade

Project in-detail

A glass facade concealing integrated greenery and a rainwater collection system elevates this residential structure, expertly addressing both environmental challenges and the need for functional living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure to optimize airflow and safety from environmental turbulence.
02
Facade openings designed to capture wind energy through an integrated windmill.
03
Rainwater collection system enhances self-sufficiency and resource management.
04
Glass wall incorporates greenery, contributing to insulation and aesthetics.
05
Adaptable living space that responds to varying climatic conditions.

The Parasite is an architectural design that tackles the challenges of changing weather conditions through an approach focused on adaptability and resilience. Located in an area prone to turbulence, the building is raised from the ground to ensure safety for its residents. This thoughtful design concept emphasizes using natural resources while creating a space that is self-sufficient and conducive to sustainable living.

Facade Design
The facade features various openings that allow for the collection of wind energy through an integrated windmill. This aspect of the design enhances energy efficiency, as it takes advantage of the natural forces in the environment, reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. The careful positioning of these openings is a clear demonstration of the commitment to sustainable practices in architecture.

Water Management
An important feature of the building is its rainwater management system, which is built into the facade. By collecting and filtering rainwater, the design provides a source of water for everyday use, showcasing the self-sufficiency of the structure. This strategy not only addresses the need for conservation but also aligns with modern principles of sustainable living.

Green Integration
The back facade incorporates a glass wall that reveals an array of greenery. This plant life adds aesthetic value and serves practical functions. It improves the thermal performance of the building by providing insulation and helping to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. Furthermore, the greenery offers potential food resources during emergencies, reinforcing the focus on resilience and ecological responsibility.

Establishment of Airflow
The design promotes effective airflow throughout the space, which is essential for keeping indoor environments comfortable. The elevation of the building allows strong winds to flow through the openings, enhancing ventilation and air quality. This careful attention to airflow contributes to the health and well-being of residents while also acknowledging the environmental challenges presented by the site's conditions.

The glass facade, adorned with greenery, creates a visual connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing nature to play a key role in daily living. It is a design detail that supports both aesthetic and functional needs, reinforcing the overall intent of the building.

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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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