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Rainwater Harvesting Sanctuary Crafted From Recycled Wood and Polycarbonate

Author:
Thanchanok Chooklin
Rainwater Harvesting Sanctuary Crafted From Recycled Wood and Polycarbonate

Project in-detail

Crafted from recycled wood and polycarbonate, this dwelling integrates a rainwater harvesting system and emphasizes natural ventilation to create a sustainable retreat for a young couple in the Thai countryside.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from recycled wooden materials for improved sustainability.
02
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system to reduce water dependency.
03
Utilizes polycarbonate roofing for enhanced natural light diffusion.
04
Features modular furniture to maximize living space flexibility.
05
Designed with cross-ventilation to promote air circulation and comfort.

## Project Overview

The "Sabai" design emphasizes comfort and sustainable living for a young couple seeking a retreat in a rural setting. The architectural concept focuses on eco-friendliness, natural ventilation, and minimalism, aiming to integrate the dwelling seamlessly within its natural surroundings. The design promotes a self-sufficient lifestyle, minimizing reliance on public utilities and encouraging a harmonious relationship with the environment.

## Spatial Strategy and Interior Design

The layout of the dwelling is characterized by efficient use of space, creating interconnected areas that foster social interaction and relaxation. The combined living area and kitchen serve as a central hub, while a compact bathroom is thoughtfully integrated for privacy. The spacious bedroom area offers a serene retreat. Modular furniture adapts to diverse living needs, including multifunctional sofa beds and vertical storage solutions, enhancing the sense of openness without the need for additional partitioning. Large windows and a raised foundation promote natural ventilation, reducing reliance on artificial climate control.

## Sustainable Features

The design incorporates several sustainable living strategies, including solar panels installed on the roof to provide primary energy. A rainwater harvesting system further underscores the project’s commitment to resource efficiency by collecting rainwater for domestic use. The use of natural light for illumination and thermal management minimizes energy consumption, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to sustainability embedded in the architectural framework. The choice of materials, such as recycled wood and durable uPVC, aligns with ecological principles while contributing to the overall aesthetic of the home.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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