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Pivoting Spaces with Photovoltaic Panels and Rainwater Collection

Author:
Paul Duncker
Pivoting Spaces with Photovoltaic Panels and Rainwater Collection

Project in-detail

Equipped with photovoltaic panels and an innovative pivot mechanism, the design efficiently transitions between functions while integrating rainwater collection to support sustainable living for its occupants.
5 key facts about this project
01
The unit can pivot to transform its interior layout based on user needs.
02
It generates and stores electricity through fully integrated photovoltaic panels.
03
Rainwater is collected and stored in expandable bladders within the structure.
04
The design accommodates efficient gray water reuse for irrigation.
05
Modular transport allows for easy relocation by various means, including helicopter.

The Qube is a compact living unit designed for one or two people. It offers a self-sufficient lifestyle, focusing on essential needs such as cooking, sleeping, and bathing. The overall design features a cubic shape, which grants it functionality and adaptability. Its innovative approach allows for easy transportation, making it suitable for different settings, including urban and rural environments.

Modularity and Functionality

Inside, the Qube contains three main areas: a kitchen, a bedroom, and a bathroom. This layout encourages users to move between spaces easily by exiting the unit and flipping it over to access the desired room. A unique pivot mechanism uses gravity, winches, and external cables to facilitate this process. Such design creates a flexible living experience while maximizing the use of limited space.

Sustainability Initiatives

Sustainability is a guiding principle for the Qube. The unit generates and stores its electricity through photovoltaic panels. When the unit is oriented for sleeping, these panels are positioned to capture the most sun. The energy produced is stored in batteries, ensuring that lighting, cooking, and heating operates smoothly at all times. This self-sufficient energy system addresses common concerns about reliance on external power sources.

Water Management Solutions

Water is collected through a system that gathers rainwater on the roof and stores it in flexible bladders inside the unit. This design minimizes water loss, even when the Qube is moved. The unit includes a bathing basin, and gray water from everyday activities can be reused for irrigation in gardens shared among units. This approach promotes resource efficiency while enhancing the overall functionality of the living environment.

Community Living

The design of the Qube fosters a sense of community. In clusters, residents can utilize shared facilities like composting toilets, while smaller portable toilets are available for individual use. This arrangement encourages interaction among residents, balancing private living with communal aspects. The Qube supports both personal needs and a collaborative community, responding effectively to modern living challenges.

Elements like rainwater collection and expandable bladder systems illustrate a commitment to practical sustainability within an efficient compact form.

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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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