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Rainwater Collection and Sustainable Green Spaces with Aquaponics

Author:
Yi-ting Tsai
Rainwater Collection and Sustainable Green Spaces with Aquaponics

Project in-detail

Incorporating a closed-loop water cycle and aquaponics, the design optimizes rainwater collection while fostering sustainable agriculture, serving as a functional and ecological community space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a closed-loop water cycle to maximize water efficiency.
02
Features dedicated aquaponics sections for sustainable food production.
03
Integrates rainwater collection systems into the roof design.
04
Cultivates local heat-resistant crops like water spinach.
05
Incorporates cultural motifs from Taiwanese indigenous mythology.

The project at A-Kung-Tien Reservoir in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, addresses a significant issue regarding water management as the reservoir faces declining storage capacity. The design focuses on integrating aquaponics and water storage, illustrating a commitment to sustainability that aims to make the most of available water resources, especially in light of the area's water scarcity challenges.

Closed-Loop Water Cycle

A key feature of the design is the closed-loop water cycle, which begins at a water-collecting area on the roof. From there, water flows through various components, including a vegetable area and water storage facilities. This approach reduces waste and promotes effective management of water, highlighting the project's focus on sustainability and resource efficiency.

Functional Layout

The layout of the building enhances accessibility, with semi-outdoor stairs providing direct access to the bedroom. This design choice responds to practical needs for urban living. Fish ponds are positioned on either side of the structure, showcasing the integration of aquaponics into the design. Ladders are carefully placed to offer easy access during rainy weather, ensuring that essential spaces remain usable, regardless of conditions.

Roof Features

The roof plays several important roles. It includes a rainwater collection system that supports the closed-loop system, contributes to energy generation through solar panels, and features planting areas for crops. These functional elements reflect a thoughtful relationship between the building's design and its environmental impact. A scenic lookout area with seating invites people to enjoy the views, enhancing the connection to the surrounding landscape.

Sustainable Cultivation

Emphasizing the cultivation of heat-resistant and pest-resistant crops, the design incorporates varieties such as water spinach and edible amaranth. These choices support the aquaponics system while reflecting local agricultural practices.

In addition to its environmental focus, the design carries cultural significance, incorporating motifs from Taiwanese indigenous mythology. The thoughtful combination of these aspects allows for a blend of human activity and nature, creating a balanced environment.

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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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