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Rainwater Harvesting Cabin With Standing Seam Metal Roofing and Local Timber Cladding

Authors:
Zsuzsanna Kiss-gál, Margó Petró, Zsolt Krausz, Bogi Kovács
Rainwater Harvesting Cabin With Standing Seam Metal Roofing and Local Timber Cladding

Project in-detail

With a design that prioritizes rainwater harvesting and incorporates standing seam metal roofing alongside local timber cladding, the structure functions as a sustainable retreat harmonizing with its forest environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates local timber cladding sourced from the surrounding forest.
02
Features a rainwater harvesting system integrated into the roof design.
03
Utilizes standing seam metal roofing for durability and efficient water collection.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to enhance natural light and space.
05
Includes multifunctional areas that adapt for various activities and uses.

The "Amid" architectural project serves as a contemporary retreat designed to harmonize with its forested surroundings. The structure emphasizes a minimalist approach, promoting a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. By integrating sustainable practices and a thoughtful spatial layout, the project highlights the potential of architecture to coexist with nature while providing functional living spaces.

The design utilizes a triadic structure comprising three principal forms: a hollow space, an intermediary area, and a solid core. This configuration illustrates the layered relationships within the ecosystem, enhancing the experience of solitude and community. The architectural layout is carefully planned to optimize views, sunlight exposure, and environmental comfort, allowing for a deeper connection to the natural landscape.

The project is distinct due to its focus on sustainability and material choice. Utilizing standing seam metal roofing allows for effective rainwater collection and provides durability against environmental elements. The exterior employs locally sourced wood cladding, contributing to the aesthetic cohesion with its setting. Interior spaces are finished with natural plywood, promoting warmth and a tactile experience, while natural fiber carpets enhance comfort and reduce environmental impact.

The architectural design integrates several systems contributing to its sustainability. Solar panels situated on the roof collect energy, promoting self-sufficiency. The rainwater collection system is designed to minimize consumption of external water sources. Additionally, the inclusion of a composting toilet aligns with environmentally responsible practices, minimizing waste impact.

Unique to the "Amid" project is the interaction of its structural elements with ecological principles. The design embraces an openable façade that facilitates flexibility in how the cabin interacts with its environment. This approach is reflected in the strategic orientation of living spaces and bedrooms, maximizing both privacy and engagement with nature.

The project invites exploration into its architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain a comprehensive understanding of the spatial relationships and systems employed. For further insights into the innovative architectural ideas and methodologies behind "Amid," readers are encouraged to review the project presentation in detail.

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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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