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Rainwater Harvesting and Butterfly Roof Ties Microhome to Nature

Authors:
Chuah Yi qing, Lim Kah ying, Chan Eng xin, Lee Jia yi
Rainwater Harvesting and Butterfly Roof Ties Microhome to Nature

Project in-detail

With a butterfly roof designed for rainwater harvesting, this microhome integrates seamlessly into its natural surroundings, providing a functional living space for a couple of floral researchers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Butterfly roof enhances rainwater collection efficiency.
02
Integrates a variety of local vegetation for biodiversity.
03
Designed specifically for the needs of floral researchers.
04
Compact layout supports simultaneous activities in limited space.
05
Uses sustainable systems for energy and water management.

Fortress is located on the outskirts of town, designed to create a strong connection with the surrounding landscape. The structure sits by a water body, allowing it to integrate naturally into the environment. It serves as a home for a couple who are floral researchers. The design focuses on blending private and shared spaces, enabling both solitude and togetherness.

Design Concept

The layout of Fortress is arranged with careful consideration of comfort and usability. Several areas serve different functions, providing a practical space for various activities. The arrangement is designed to encourage interaction while still allowing for moments of privacy. Familiar shapes and spaces help create a welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the living experience for its occupants.

Sustainable Strategies

Sustainability is an important aspect of Fortress. It features a rainwater harvesting system, cleverly designed with a butterfly roof that collects water efficiently. This system not only supports the home’s needs but also contributes to its overall appearance. The thoughtful design demonstrates a commitment to minimizing environmental impact.

Renewable Energy Integration

Solar panels on the roof face the sun directly, maximizing energy collection and reducing dependence on outside sources. This integration of renewable energy highlights the home's efficiency. It supports a sustainable lifestyle and reflects a modern approach to energy use in residential design.

Architectural Detail

The design pays close attention to the relationship with the surrounding vegetation. A variety of plants are included around the structure, enhancing its appearance while also supporting local wildlife. This aspect reinforces Fortress as part of the ecosystem, blending architecture with nature in a way that is both functional and visually appealing.

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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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