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Living Roofs and Rainwater Harvesting in a Modular Aluminum Microhome

Author:
Adrian Cebria
Living Roofs and Rainwater Harvesting in a Modular Aluminum Microhome

Project in-detail

Incorporating living roofs and a rainwater harvesting system, the modular aluminum microhome integrates sustainable practices with an adaptive design to create efficient living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for efficient water management.
02
Features living roofs that enhance biodiversity and insulation.
03
Utilizes lightweight aluminum panels for structural efficiency.
04
Modular design allows for flexible reconfiguration of living spaces.
05
Integrates vegetation as a core element of the architectural experience.

## Analytical Report: The Symbiotic Microhome

### Overview
Located within the framework of the Builder's Microhome Architecture Ideas Competition 2024, the Symbiotic Microhome explores the integration of compact living with ecological principles. This project addresses contemporary challenges in architecture and sustainability while seeking to foster a relationship between human habitation and the surrounding natural environment.

### Spatial Configuration
The design encompasses a total area of 25 square meters and employs a modular layout that accommodates various functional living spaces including a bedroom/office, bathroom, living room, and kitchen. The arrangement fosters accessibility and interaction among units, while pathways between them enhance engagement with the natural context. Each module retains its autonomy, allowing for personalized experiences within a cohesive living environment.

### Material Selection
A focused approach to materiality underscores durability and sustainability throughout the microhome. Key materials include DRI Design Cassette with Karrier Panel, which provides structural integrity while minimizing the overall footprint. Troldtekt V-Line Acoustic Ceiling Tile enhances indoor acoustic comfort, and the integration of a rainwater harvesting system exemplifies a commitment to resource conservation. These selections support sustainable living without compromising on user comfort and utility.

The design also integrates living vegetation, transforming the microhome into a part of its ecosystem. Rooftop gardens serve dual purposes, improving insulation and energy efficiency while creating habitats for local wildlife. Modular reconfiguration allows the space to adapt to occupants' changing needs, promoting both individual lifestyles and a connection to the broader community.

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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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