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Rainwater-Collecting Greenhouse Overlooking Blue Springs

Author:
择敏 严
Rainwater-Collecting Greenhouse Overlooking Blue Springs

Project in-detail

A multifunctional greenhouse incorporates rainwater collection systems and opens up to views of a tranquil blue spring, serving as a unique venue for community engagement with sustainable agriculture.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fact 1 Features a multi-layered planting platform that fits the site's natural topography.
02
Fact 2 Incorporates a closed-loop water system using rainwater collection for irrigation.
03
Fact 3 Offers a restaurant area with views of a nearby blue spring.
04
Fact 4 Contains four functional blocks that guide visitors through the food production process.
05
Fact 5 Optimizes sightlines to connect with surrounding natural features, including a volcano.

The Nature Station is an architectural endeavor that aims to connect urban residents with agricultural practices. Positioned in a setting that contrasts the hustle of city life with the calmness of rural landscapes, the design encourages visitors to deeply engage with nature and understand food production. The station functions not just as a building but as an immersive experience that promotes sustainable living and a nurturing relationship with the environment.

Site Planning and Layout

At the heart of this design is a greenhouse, featuring a multi-layered planting platform that fits with the natural shape of the land. This layout supports various planting environments and emphasizes sustainability. Within the greenhouse, four functional blocks guide visitors through the entire food production process, allowing them to see firsthand the journey from seed to table.

Visitor Experience

The arrangement of spaces is meant to create an engaging journey for visitors. Each block offers opportunities to interact with different stages of agricultural processes. People can witness the growth of ingredients, take part in cooking, and enjoy meals in a restaurant area that looks out over a clear blue spring. This dining space combines culinary experiences with beautiful views of nature, highlighting the link between food and the environment.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability plays a key role in the design. The building includes rainwater collection systems that provide water for irrigation. Any excess water is directed into geothermal energy systems, showcasing an efficient closed-loop approach. This strategy helps reduce resource use while demonstrating a commitment to responsible design within the project.

The design carefully responds to its landscape. Sightlines are optimized to connect with the nearby volcano and other natural features. This relationship not only enhances the overall visual appeal but also encourages visitors to feel a deeper connection with the environment. The integration of functional spaces and engaging experiences supports the mission of promoting awareness of nature and sustainable practices.

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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

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