Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Rainwater Harvesting Home Constructed with Spruce and Cork for Flexible Living

Author:
Enric Gimeno Vidal
Rainwater Harvesting Home Constructed with Spruce and Cork for Flexible Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with durable spruce and insulating cork, this microhome integrates a rainwater harvesting system to create a flexible living space that fosters social interaction and environmental sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rainwater harvesting to support self-sufficient living.
02
Constructed from locally sourced spruce and insulating cork for sustainability.
03
Features a modular layout for adaptability to the homeowners' needs.
04
Incorporates large glass panels to enhance natural light and views.
05
Designed with a bent A-frame to optimize structural integrity and aesthetics.
The architectural project “Microhome - The Dancing Kitchen” offers a comprehensive solution to modern living challenges, particularly for young couples. The design emphasizes minimalism and sustainable living while maintaining an inviting atmosphere. It is situated within a coastal landscape, enhancing its connection to nature and optimizing natural light throughout the internal spaces.

The core concept revolves around the notion of a "dancing kitchen," which symbolizes a dynamic, communal space that encourages interaction and social engagement. This focus on social functionality is evidenced in the layout, where living, cooking, and resting areas are thoughtfully distributed to promote connectivity between spaces. Each module's arrangement allows versatility, catering to specific needs and accommodating different lifestyles.

Responsive Design and Community Integration

This project stands out due to its modular flexibility, allowing the home to adapt not just to the owner's requirements but also to the surrounding environment. The use of repetitive 50 cm modules facilitates an efficient spatial configuration. This standardization aids in design consistency while giving residents the ability to customize arrangements.

Another distinctive feature of the design is the integration of sustainable practices. This includes a rainwater harvesting system, which effectively addresses water management for household use. The employment of materials such as fine wood, cork, and folded sheet steel reflects a commitment to both durability and ecological stewardship. The extensive glazing enhances views of the outdoors while maximizing natural light, providing a seamless connection with nature.

Functionality and Efficiency

The specific functions of the "Microhome - The Dancing Kitchen" extend beyond traditional housing. Combining areas for cooking, dining, and socializing into a single flowing space fosters a more collaborative lifestyle. The design’s cohesive nature allows the kitchen to serve as a multi-use area where cooking and social interaction occur simultaneously.

The interior layout is straightforward yet efficient, ensuring optimal use of space. The project incorporates ample storage solutions without sacrificing openness, which is crucial in compact living designs. Furthermore, the attention to insulation and material choices contributes not only to the occupants’ comfort but also to energy efficiency.

For a deeper understanding of this architectural endeavor and to explore its innovative features in greater detail, readers are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs presented within the project documentation. These elements provide further insights into the architectural ideas that underline the distinctiveness of "Microhome - The Dancing Kitchen."
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy