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Rainwater Harvesting and Hydroponics in a Modular Community Home Built with Recycled Materials

Author:
Angie paola Aguilera ortiz
Rainwater Harvesting and Hydroponics in a Modular Community Home Built with Recycled Materials

Project in-detail

Utilizing hydroponic systems and rainwater collection, the design integrates recycled materials into a modular home that prioritizes community interaction and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes hydroponic panels for food production within the living space.
02
Incorporates a rainwater collection system to enhance water efficiency.
03
Constructed with a fossil-free steel frame for reduced environmental impact.
04
Features floor modules made from recycled cardboard tubes for sustainability.
05
Integrates traditional design elements from hanok homes with modern urban needs.

The SYMBIOK HOME project is located in Seoul, a city that faces rapid urbanization along with various social and environmental challenges. Designed around the idea of "symbiosis," it aims to foster a communal living space that meets the needs of modern urban life while enhancing relationships among residents.

SUSTAINABILITY AS A CORE PRINCIPLE

Sustainability serves as a fundamental element of the design. Adapting existing buildings plays a key role in reducing the use of resources. Strategies to cut down water and energy consumption demonstrate a proactive approach to minimizing environmental impact. This focus addresses significant issues in a densely populated city and emphasizes efficient resource use.

MODULARITY AND ADAPTABILITY

The design incorporates a modular system, which enhances flexibility and adaptability. Different elements of the structure can interact effectively, allowing for a range of living arrangements. By utilizing this modular approach, the design can adapt to the evolving needs of its inhabitants and respond to the changing urban landscape.

MATERIAL INNOVATION

Several innovative materials support the project’s sustainability goals. Solar panels provide renewable energy, while a fossil-free steel frame ensures structural integrity without harming the environment. Floor modules made from recycled cardboard tubes add to the overall efficiency. Additionally, hydroponic panels and a rainwater collection tank assist in efficient water management, contributing to food production within the community.

CULTURAL INTEGRATION

Design elements reflect Seoul's rich cultural history by blending traditional aspects, such as the courtyard homes known as hanok, with modern characteristics seen in urban districts like Gangnam. This combination not only enhances the architectural narrative but also roots the project within its cultural context. By revitalizing social spaces, the design encourages residents to engage and connect with one another.

SYMBIOK HOME presents an approach to urban living that thoughtfully balances ecological concerns and community needs. The combination of innovative materials and adaptable design offers a clear vision for the present and future of urban life in Seoul.

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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
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