Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Rainwater-Collecting Houseboat Utilizing 3D Printed Concrete and Fiberglass Insulation

Author:
Jordana Psiloyenis
Rainwater-Collecting Houseboat Utilizing 3D Printed Concrete and Fiberglass Insulation

Project in-detail

Utilizing 3D printed concrete and fiberglass insulation, the houseboat incorporates a rainwater collection system, creating a sustainable living solution within a coastal environment vulnerable to rising sea levels.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printing technology for efficient construction.
02
Incorporates fiberglass insulation for enhanced energy efficiency.
03
Features a rainwater collection system for sustainable water use.
04
Modular design allows for flexible living configurations.
05
Designed specifically to adapt to rising sea levels in coastal areas.

The design features a modular houseboat concept located in a coastal area facing the challenges of rising sea levels. This approach provides a practical solution to urban living in environments that are vulnerable to water fluctuations. The houseboat integrates sustainability and energy efficiency into its core, offering both passive and active systems for maintaining comfortable living conditions. Community spaces are central to the design, encouraging interactions among residents.

Sustainability Focus

Sustainability is a primary focus, with the design addressing key issues such as energy use, water efficiency, and construction waste. The modular nature of the houseboat allows for varying layouts that adapt to different family sizes and lifestyles. Each component is thoughtful, providing flexibility and practicality. This approach meets the needs of modern living while being mindful of environmental impacts.

Innovative Resource Management

The houseboat incorporates an efficient water management system, prominently featuring rainwater collection for use in bathrooms and kitchens. This reduces the demand for municipal water, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable resource practices. Active heating and cooling systems benefit from solar panels, which help reduce energy consumption. This combination ensures a comfortable environment while promoting eco-friendly living.

Material Utilization

Materials are selected to enhance both design and function. The houseboat uses 3D printed concrete, which allows for accurate construction while minimizing waste. In addition, fiberglass insulation improves thermal performance, working alongside the houseboat's active systems for climate control. Sea-foam is also used, enhancing insulation and energy efficiency to make the space comfortable for all occupants.

Community Engagement

The design includes shared internal and external spaces that encourage social interaction among residents. These communal areas are carefully arranged to promote engagement, reflecting a desire for connection in residential living. The focus on community is significant, as it aligns with a growing recognition of the importance of relationships and shared experiences among neighbors.

Attention to small details benefits the overall functionality of the houseboat. For instance, the solar hatch allows for natural light while also providing ventilation, ensuring that living conditions remain pleasant and connected to the outdoors. This detail highlights the thoughtful design intended to enhance everyday life in a unique living environment.

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
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