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Phytoremediating Algae Facade in a Compact Sustainable Community Module

Authors:
Abhinav Sujit, Manasa Nandini manimozhi, Migom Doley
Phytoremediating Algae Facade in a Compact Sustainable Community Module

Project in-detail

Incorporating a phytoremediating algae facade and renewable energy systems, this compact community module redefines sustainable living by efficiently managing air quality and water resources.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a facade of phytoremediating algae for natural air purification.
02
Integrates bidirectional Solar PVC and BIPVC for renewable energy generation.
03
Employs a trombe wall system for efficient thermal insulation.
04
Features a closed-loop water management system for recycling grey water.
05
Promotes community interaction with designated shared living zones.

Biome: Recharging Habitats is designed to create a sustainable living environment in an urban context. It addresses modern challenges such as pollution and urban congestion through effective strategies for energy management, air quality, and water sustainability. The design focuses on establishing a connection between residential spaces and the natural world, supporting individual well-being and environmental health.

Air Quality Management
The design uses an aerodynamic shape to improve air circulation inside the structure. This allows for the efficient collection of warm air, which can then be ventilated in warm climates or retained in cooler temperatures for comfort. A key feature includes phytoremediating algae placed in the facade, which actively cleans the surrounding air through natural processes. This integration enhances local air quality, showcasing a commitment to environmental care.

Energy Efficiency
Energy generation is central to Biome, utilizing bidirectional Solar PVC on the roof along with Building Integrated Photovoltaic Cells (BIPVC) incorporated in the facade. These systems provide a consistent source of renewable energy to power the module's appliances, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources. By integrating energy technologies within the structure, the design promotes efficient energy use while aligning with sustainable practices.

Water and Waste Systems
Water management is carefully addressed with systems for rainwater harvesting and filtration. Waste from toilets is separated into solid and black components; the solid waste is transformed into compost through an anaerobic treatment process, while black water is converted into grey water for use in phytoremediation. This strategy emphasizes efficient resource use and supports the design’s sustainability goals.

Community Living Spaces
Biome is designed to encourage community interaction with designated areas for cooking, resting, living, studying, and bathing. The layout provides spaces for residents to engage with one another in shared environments, reflecting modern trends in urban living that emphasize social connection. Each space is thoughtfully planned to enhance resident experience, ensuring both convenience and comfort in a sustainable environment.

Rainwater is collected and stored in large tanks, providing a reliable supply for indoor use and reducing dependence on outside water sources. The integration of these features demonstrates a commitment to creating a living space that is adaptable to environmental conditions, fostering a positive relationship between architecture and nature.

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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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