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Rainwater-Capturing Ponds Surrounded by Natural Stone and Glass Residences in Sustainable Community Design

Author:
Isabel Urbez martinez
Rainwater-Capturing Ponds Surrounded by Natural Stone and Glass Residences in Sustainable Community Design

Project in-detail

Integrating rainwater-capturing ponds with locally sourced stone and expansive glass, the design creates a sustainable community of residential units that harmonize with the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates rainwater management through strategically designed ponds.
02
Utilizes locally sourced stone to ensure environmental compatibility.
03
Features panoramic glass facades for optimal natural light.
04
Arranges apartment units along sloping terrain to enhance views.
05
Emphasizes natural materials to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Augua project, located in Aragon, Spain, presents a modern architectural design focused on harmonizing with its natural environment. Named after the historical term for water, Augua integrates sustainable practices with contemporary living, addressing the needs of residents while supporting ecological systems. The design incorporates a series of apartment units arranged along a sloping terrain, optimizing views and natural light while enhancing the landscape's inherent features.

Environmental Integration and Sustainable Design

One of the key aspects of the Augua project is its commitment to sustainability. The architectural design utilizes locally sourced stone for structural elements to minimize environmental impact and blend the buildings seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Large glass facades characterize the apartments, allowing for increased daylight and a connection to the outdoors, reinforcing the project's identity as a component of its natural setting. The layout incorporates ponds that serve both aesthetic and functional purposes, utilizing rainwater collected from the roofs to manage stormwater and provide for irrigation needs.

Communal and Private Spaces

The arrangement of the apartments in varying elevations creates a combination of communal and private areas. Centralized communal spaces encourage social interaction among residents, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Meanwhile, the strategic layout ensures that residents can enjoy privacy within their own units, with thoughtfully designed transitions between public and private realms.

Innovative Use of Materials

The careful selection of materials enhances the architectural expression of the project. Local stone forms the basis of the structural walls, providing thermal mass and durability. Wood is integrated into the interiors for ceilings and finishes, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Concrete walkways facilitate access throughout the landscape, providing functional pathways that harmonize with the natural environment.

The Augua project stands out for its focus on environmental stewardship and community engagement. The use of natural water management systems, the incorporation of local materials, and the design that facilitates both privacy and social interaction illustrate a strong response to contemporary housing demands in a rural setting. For more detailed information regarding architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, which offers deeper insights into the architectural ideas that underpin this thoughtful design.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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