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Rainwater Harvesting Cabin with Cross-Laminated Timber and Rock Wool Insulation

Author:
Martin Eggel
Rainwater Harvesting Cabin with Cross-Laminated Timber and Rock Wool Insulation

Project in-detail

Incorporating cross-laminated timber and rock wool insulation, the design facilitates rainwater harvesting while promoting a tranquil environment for meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The circular design eliminates traditional front-back orientation.
02
A central water tank supports rainwater harvesting.
03
Cross-laminated timber provides structural stability and sustainability.
04
Wooden slats offer sun protection and privacy.
05
The meditation cabin connects a conditioned interior with a covered terrace.

The design project focuses on the idea of circularity, which influences both its shape and function. Set in an environment that emphasizes natural surroundings, the building reflects concepts of unity and continuity. The circular form eliminates rigid distinctions like front or back, creating a space that encourages free movement and interaction among users.

Design Concept

This architecture integrates closely with its surroundings. The circular shape helps the building fit well into different geographical contexts, illustrating an essential principle of sustainable design. This adaptability allows it to blend in with the landscape while addressing the specific needs of the site.

Structural Features

The structure is elevated on pillars, adding to its versatility. This elevation helps the design respond well to various terrains and practical needs. It highlights a thoughtful approach to creating a space that balances innovation with functionality.

Interior Configuration

One notable aspect is the meditation cabin, crafted to provide a calm environment. This space features a controlled interior that flows into a covered terrace, linking indoors with the outdoors. A central storage area incorporates a water tank for collecting rainwater, which supports a sustainable approach to managing water resources.

Materials and Sustainability

Cross-laminated timber boards and steel supports form the main structure, combining durability with alignment to sustainability goals. Rock wool is used for insulation, improving energy efficiency, while clay plaster serves as an appealing finish. These material choices emphasize a commitment to minimizing environmental impact while maintaining both functionality and aesthetic value.

Natural light is carefully directed into the meditation cabin through well-placed openings, creating a peaceful interior that encourages moments of reflection and stillness.

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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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