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Natural Ventilation Through Wind Towers and Recycled Materials in a Community-Oriented Residence

Author:
Samira Yazdanfar
Natural Ventilation Through Wind Towers and Recycled Materials in a Community-Oriented Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating 3D-printed wind towers and a gray water recycling system, the design focuses on enhancing natural ventilation and sustainability within a community-centric living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates 3D-printed wind towers to enhance natural airflow throughout the structure.
02
Utilizes a gray water recycling system to minimize water consumption and promote sustainability.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
04
Integrates water channels within walls for ambient cooling and aesthetic appeal.
05
Employs local bricks to maintain regional architectural context and reduce transport emissions.

## Architectural Design Report

### Overview and Context

Located in a culturally rich area, the design emphasizes the integration of traditional architectural principles with modern sustainable practices. The intent is to create a living environment that reflects the heritage and lifestyle of its residents while promoting energy efficiency and comfort. The project employs innovative construction techniques such as 3D printing, which enhance adaptability and efficiency throughout the building process.

### Spatial Organization and User Interaction

The layout features multiple levels that offer a variety of living spaces, promoting connectivity and a communal atmosphere. Open-plan living areas provide direct access to an outdoor garden, fostering family interaction and engagement with nature. Bedrooms are strategically positioned to offer privacy, separated from communal spaces. Utility areas, located in the basement, enhance organization and accessibility while minimizing clutter in the main living areas.

### Material Selection and Environmental Considerations

Material choices are pivotal to the project's sustainability and aesthetic goals. Brick serves as the primary structural material, enhancing thermal efficiency and durability. Concrete is used in foundational elements for stability, while glass is incorporated into façades and windows to maximize natural light and maintain privacy. Embedded water channels improve cooling and facilitate irrigation. The project also prioritizes sustainability through the use of recycled materials and features such as a gray water recycling system utilizing Hydraloop technology, and HydroPanels that provide clean drinking water, supporting resource management and self-sufficiency.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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