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Perforated Aluminum Facade and Rainwater Harvesting in Sustainable Modular Shelter

Author:
Oleksii Kutsalo
Perforated Aluminum Facade and Rainwater Harvesting in Sustainable Modular Shelter

Project in-detail

Utilizing a perforated aluminum facade and an efficient rainwater harvesting system, the design creates a versatile modular shelter that adapts to diverse climatic conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes perforated aluminum panels for enhanced ventilation and light control.
02
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.
03
Designed with a flexible modular structure for efficient transportation and assembly.
04
Features double-glazed thermal glass to optimize energy efficiency and climate response.
05
Employs polyurethane insulation for superior thermal performance in various conditions.

### Overview
The 4Season Shelter is designed as an adaptable structure capable of providing year-round living solutions across diverse climatic environments, ranging from forests to arid deserts. Its intent is to address the needs for temporary habitation while prioritizing ecological sensitivity and energy independence. The project incorporates advanced materials and technologies that facilitate both functionality and aesthetic coherence with surrounding landscapes.

### Architectural Form and Spatial Strategy
Distinctive architectural features define the exterior, prominently including perforated metal panels that create dynamic internal light patterns while serving as effective passive solar shading elements. The interior layout is organized around an open-concept design that integrates living spaces—including a kitchen, living room, bedroom, and terrace—encouraging interaction with the natural environment through expansive glazing that offers panoramic views. This layout promotes versatility and comfort, suitable for various user requirements.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The shelter's facade utilizes perforated aluminum panels, contributing to ventilation and privacy. A robust steel frame supports modular units, enhancing durability, while double-glazed thermal glass assists in thermal regulation. Polyurethane insulation optimizes energy efficiency, and KINSAPAN solar panels on the roof harness renewable energy for self-sustainability. Furthermore, a rainwater harvesting system collects and stores water for reuse, complemented by a lithium-ion battery system that ensures energy availability during periods without sunlight. Passive heating and cooling strategies are integrated through adjustable sun protection panels, optimizing internal climate conditions throughout varying seasons.

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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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