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Plantable Facade and Rainwater Harvesting in a Compact Steel and Laminated Wood Residence

Author:
Alexander Mpaltatzis
Plantable Facade and Rainwater Harvesting in a Compact Steel and Laminated Wood Residence

Project in-detail

With a plantable facade designed for urban gardening and integrated rainwater harvesting systems, this compact residence utilizes steel and laminated wood to create an efficient living space that emphasizes sustainability and adaptability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Plantable facade enables urban gardening for enhanced biodiversity.
02
Integrated rainwater harvesting system increases water efficiency.
03
Steel framework provides durability while minimizing structural weight.
04
Laminated wood enhances thermal performance and aesthetic appeal.
05
Modular design allows for customizable living spaces based on needs.
The Tiny House project represents a thoughtful response to modern challenges in housing, emphasizing sustainable living, efficient use of space, and adaptability. The architectural design fuses contemporary aesthetics with practical functionality, accommodating various lifestyles while promoting environmental responsibility. This compact residence is structured to maximize utility within a limited footprint, allowing for a variety of configurations that cater to both urban and rural settings.

The function of The Tiny House revolves around providing essential living spaces in a modular format. It houses key areas such as a kitchen, bathroom, living area, and optional expandable modules for additional spaces like bedrooms or work areas. This versatility allows residents to customize their environment to suit specific needs, whether for single occupancy, small families, or temporary housing solutions.

Unique Design Approaches
The Tiny House stands out due to its integration of sustainable materials and innovative technology. Its construction employs a steel framework which supports the structure while optimizing durability. Wood, specifically laminated wood, adds warmth and aesthetic appeal, creating a seamless blend of materials. This combination not only enhances the visual aspect but also contributes to thermal performance through effective insulation provided by wood fiber boards.

Another distinguishing feature is the use of glass panels that promote natural light, minimizing the need for artificial lighting. This element, combined with adjustable horizontal louvers, allows for climate-responsive design, effectively balancing indoor climate control with outdoor views. Such thoughtful considerations enhance comfort and energy efficiency.

The architectural design further incorporates rainwater harvesting systems, allowing for a degree of self-sufficiency that reduces dependence on external water sources. Additionally, solar panels integrated into the design capitalize on renewable energy, positioning the Tiny House as a forward-thinking residence in terms of energy consumption and sustainability.

Innovative space utilization methods include multifunctional furniture that can be folded or retracted, enabling residents to maximize the living area. Custom storage solutions are integrated seamlessly into the architecture, allowing for optimized organization and minimal clutter. These features highlight a design philosophy that prioritizes efficiency without sacrificing comfort.

As the interest in sustainable architecture continues to grow, The Tiny House presents a solution that addresses both current housing needs and future environmental considerations. To delve deeper into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that shaped this project, explore the presentation of The Tiny House for a comprehensive understanding of its approach and innovations.
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Enter an open architecture
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The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
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Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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