Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Radial Heating and Thermal Waters in a Customizable Microhome

Authors:
Tomás Apparcel, Agustín Hurtado
Radial Heating and Thermal Waters in a Customizable Microhome

Project in-detail

Utilizing thermal waters for radial heating, the microhome offers a customizable living space designed for energy efficiency and sustainable resource management.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes thermal water for efficient radial heating.
02
Gray water is treated and repurposed for non-potable uses.
03
Incorporates CNC Router technology for precise modular construction.
04
Offers four customizable terrace options to enhance outdoor living.
05
Located in the thermal-rich landscape of Termas de Chillán.

The microhome project is situated in the Ñuble region of Chile, specifically in the town of Termas de Chillán. It focuses on using natural thermal resources to provide a comfortable living environment that emphasizes energy efficiency. The design incorporates thermal waters for heating, addressing modern needs for sustainability while offering a flexible layout that can adapt to individual preferences.

Thermal Resource Utilization

The concept relies on a radial heating system that takes advantage of the thermal waters in the area. This system helps maintain a consistent internal temperature, especially in the colder months, which reduces dependence on external heat sources. By harnessing geothermal energy, the design promotes a practical approach to residential heating along with the health benefits of having warm thermal water accessible.

Water Management System

A significant aspect of the microhome is its effective water management system. Gray water is managed through an underground containment system, enabling treatment and reuse for non-drinking purposes. This choice minimizes waste and shows a commitment to environmental responsibility by making efficient use of available resources.

Modular Design and Customization

CNC Router technology plays a key role in the construction of the microhome, offering precision and speed. This modular design allows for high levels of customization, so future residents can adapt their living spaces to meet their specific needs. The flexible layout provides opportunities for personal expression, making it easy to design a home that fits a variety of lifestyles and preferences.

Terrace Integration

The design features several terrace modules that enhance outdoor living space. Residents can choose from four different terrace options, integrating them with the main structure. This addition not only extends the functional area of the home but also encourages residents to connect with the surrounding landscape, promoting a harmonious relationship with the environment.

The project combines practical design with thoughtful environmental considerations, resulting in a microhome that fits well within its setting while providing comfort and adaptability for its inhabitants.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy