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Rainwater Harvesting Amid Macrocarpa Timber in a Harmonious Living Space

Author:
Shruti Mayekar
Rainwater Harvesting Amid Macrocarpa Timber in a Harmonious Living Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with Macrocarpa timber and equipped with a rainwater harvesting system, the residence offers a harmonious blend of sustainability and comfort in a personal living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from Macrocarpa timber for durability and local sustainability.
02
Features a rainwater harvesting system to optimize water usage in daily living.
03
Utilizes 90% glass façade to enhance natural light and connection to the outdoors.
04
Design allows for 360-degree views, promoting a strong relationship with the surrounding landscape.
05
Incorporates Ecofleece insulation for improved thermal efficiency and environmental impact.

The architectural design, "Circle - A Warm Enclosure," is centered in a landscape that values both nature and comfort. The residence highlights a thoughtful arrangement of spaces that encourage warmth and ease of movement. Its overall design concept prioritizes sustainability while creating an inviting atmosphere for daily living.

Sustainable Strategies

A clear commitment to sustainability is evident in various design strategies. Overhangs are strategically placed to provide shade from the summer sun. This feature not only improves indoor comfort but also reduces reliance on air conditioning. Additionally, a rainwater harvesting system reflects an emphasis on responsible resource use, allowing for efficient water management and conservation.

Light and Spatial Arrangement

Natural light plays an important role in the design. The layout incorporates large expanses of glass, comprising 90% of the cabin's exterior. This choice fosters a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. It allows light to flood the interior, creating a bright and airy environment. The design thoughtfully separates areas for privacy and social interaction, ensuring that both public and personal spaces coexist harmoniously.

Material Selection

The materials chosen for the structure reflect a focus on local and sustainable options. Macrocarpa Timber and Max/Cypress timber are key components, both meeting the New Zealand Building Code standards. These materials not only enhance the visual appeal but also support the ecological values of the design. The use of recycled fabrics and Ecofleece insulation reinforces the commitment to minimizing environmental impact while promoting warmth and comfort.

The integration of energy-efficient systems further enhances the project's sustainability. Photovoltaic panels and solar water heating systems are included for effective energy management. Each detail in the design contributes to an overall sense of warmth and functionality, creating a home that balances comfort with environmental awareness. The result is a residence that feels inviting and practical, reflecting careful thought in every aspect of its construction.

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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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