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Rainwater Collection and Rooftop Gardens in a Communal Living Space

Authors:
Marya Bakhrameeva, Anastasia Volkova
Rainwater Collection and Rooftop Gardens in a Communal Living Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating rooftop gardens and a rainwater collection system, the design fosters sustainable communal living while promoting interaction among a diverse range of residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a prioritizing circle concept to optimize resident interaction.
02
Features communal modules designed specifically for different demographics.
03
Incorporates a rainwater collection system to enhance sustainability.
04
Rooftop gardens allow residents to grow vegetables in an urban setting.
05
Emphasizes historical architectural elements alongside modern living needs.

Rome Collective Living is an architectural endeavor that provides a solution for co-living in Rome. It aims to meet the needs of a diverse range of residents including students, freelancers, families, and the elderly. By focusing on sociological principles, the design promotes community interaction and engagement. Drawing from the historical context of Rome, it incorporates elements from traditional Roman architecture while addressing modern living requirements.

Spatial Organization

The project features a thoughtful spatial organization that encourages interaction among different groups. Living modules are categorized based on life experience, work status, and relationship dynamics. This layout allows residents to connect meaningfully with one another. Communal spaces are strategically placed, ensuring that everyone has opportunities to engage and collaborate.

Residential Strategy

A significant aspect of the design considers the size of the site and how it can best accommodate various demographics. Smaller locations can support one to two categories, while larger areas can host multiple groups. This strategy helps foster a varied living environment and enhances the sense of community. The design includes a "prioritizing circle," a concept that places related groups nearer together, promoting more interaction and productivity.

Architectural Language

The architectural language reflects the principles of Roman *DOMUS* and *INSULA*. Features like atriums and peristyles contribute to natural light and air flow within the building. This approach not only serves modern needs but also respects the historical essence of Rome, creating a dialogue between the old and the new.

Sustainability Initiatives

Sustainability is a fundamental aspect, with several initiatives integrated into the design. Rooftop gardens enable residents to grow vegetables, while systems for collecting rainwater highlight a commitment to environmental stewardship. The waste management system includes separate collection processes, which further emphasizes the project’s focus on reducing its ecological impact.

The overall design presents a modern interpretation of traditional forms. Balconies and shared patios enhance outdoor space and encourage social interaction. These features provide residents a connection to the city and the chance to experience lively views of Rome’s historic landscape.

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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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