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Rainwater Harvesting Pod Constructed with Local Materials and Green Wall Integration

Author:
Nicholas David Officer
Rainwater Harvesting Pod Constructed with Local Materials and Green Wall Integration

Project in-detail

Constructed with modular efficiency and enhanced by a green wall, the design utilizes locally sourced materials and advanced water management systems to create a sustainable living unit suitable for diverse environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes screw pile foundations to minimize site disruption.
02
Incorporates a living green wall for air quality enhancement.
03
Integrates rainwater harvesting with greywater recycling systems.
04
Features transparent glazing for natural light maximization and seamless outdoor views.
05
Constructed with locally sourced materials to reduce carbon footprint.

**Overview and Intent**
Located in diverse geographical contexts, including New Zealand's suburban areas and the Pacific Nations, the Seedpod project addresses the urgent demand for sustainable and adaptable housing solutions. It aims to create compact living units that serve various functions while promoting integration within the local environment and community. Each 25m² dwelling is designed to accommodate essential living functions—including a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area—while reflecting principles of sustainability and autonomy.

**Design Strategy and Functionality**
The Seedpod adopts an oval form, enhancing its interaction with the surrounding natural landscape. The layout prioritizes functionality and openness, facilitated by large windows that offer extensive views and natural light. Key features include a solar roof equipped with photovoltaic panels for energy generation and advanced water management systems that support rainwater collection and greywater recycling. These innovations aim to minimize the project’s environmental impact while promoting a self-sufficient lifestyle.

**Material Selection and Local Adaptation**
The materiality of the Seedpod is centered on local and sustainable choices that emphasize reduced environmental footprints. Notable materials used include QuadCore KS1000RW LEC panels for insulation, plywood and timber for framing, and a Dri-Design cassette system for durability. The exterior adapts to its surroundings with locally resonant materials, fostering a sense of community and belonging. This integration of design and materiality not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also reinforces the ecological intent of the overall project.

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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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