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Rain Catchment Solutions and Sustainable Living in Microhomes for Supportive Housing

Author:
Olivia Asgari
Rain Catchment Solutions and Sustainable Living in Microhomes for Supportive Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing a unique integration of rain catchment systems and microhomes, this supportive housing initiative provides a sustainable solution for addressing homelessness in Vancouver.
5 key facts about this project
01
Microhomes allow flexibility for residents to relocate as needed.
02
PUPA, ECLOSION, and BUTTERFLY phases guide the transition to independence.
03
Rain catchment systems provide sustainable water resources for residents.
04
Solar water heaters reduce utility costs for long-term living.
05
Active community engagement fosters social ties and support networks.

The CHRYSALIS housing project is located in Vancouver, Canada. It provides a structured approach to addressing the issue of homelessness. The design is based on the natural process of a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly. This concept reflects a journey from a state of vulnerability to one of independence and stability. The project is divided into three phases: PUPA, ECLOSION, and BUTTERFLY, each representing a step in the path toward self-sufficiency.

PUPA is the first phase, offering transitional housing for individuals experiencing homelessness. This stage ensures easy access to important services that promote employment and community participation. The design focuses on creating a supportive environment. It is arranged in a way that enhances functionality while helping residents to recover and regain their independence.

Once individuals reach the ECLOSION phase, they begin to earn personal income. At this stage, occupants start making low rental payments, which encourages them to take an active role in managing their finances. The design of this phase emphasizes flexibility. Spaces can adapt to the evolving needs of the residents, providing a practical solution for various life circumstances.

In the BUTTERFLY phase, residents achieve homeownership within government-managed plots designated for long-term development. This stage allows residents more freedom, as they can move their homes to different locations if needed. Such mobility ensures that residents are not confined by fixed structures, enhancing their quality of life in the urban setting.

Sustainability is an integral aspect of CHRYSALIS. Features like rain catchment systems and solar water heaters contribute to a lower cost of living for residents. Solar panels harness renewable energy that can be used or sold back to the grid, promoting environmental responsibility. The design allows for a reduced ecological footprint, ensuring that the living environment is not only functional but also responsible.

The CHRYSALIS project beautifully combines support and sustainability. The design encourages residents to innovate in their use of resources. This focus on integration fosters a sense of community ownership, allowing individuals to move from reliance on support systems to independent living. Each detail contributes to a supportive and sustainable living environment, making it a thoughtful solution to complex social challenges.

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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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