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Rainwater Harvesting Through Funnel Architecture With Local Stone and Thermal Mass Utilization

Author:
Junwei Li
Rainwater Harvesting Through Funnel Architecture With Local Stone and Thermal Mass Utilization

Project in-detail

Harnessing rainwater through a distinctive funnel structure, the design incorporates local stone and thermal mass to create an efficient living space that emphasizes sustainability and resource management.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a funnel-shaped roof to efficiently capture and direct rainwater for storage.
02
Incorporates a natural filtration system using local soil and vegetation for wastewater treatment.
03
Constructed with thermal mass materials to enhance energy efficiency and temperature regulation.
04
Features extensive glazing to maximize natural light while maintaining privacy in living spaces.
05
Integrates native flora on the roof to promote biodiversity and improve insulation.

## Overview
The Water Funnel House is situated in a mountainous region designed to integrate sustainable water management with functional living spaces. Drawing inspiration from Felix Candela's principles, the project focuses on advanced rainwater harvesting to promote ecological responsibility while ensuring efficient residential use.

## Structural Design and Layout
A distinctive umbrella funnel structure characterizes the project, facilitating both aesthetic appeal and functional efficacy. The roof design incorporates multiple sloped planes that adeptly channel rainwater into a filtration and storage system. This modular approach harmonizes with the natural terrain, enhancing the architectural form while optimizing resource utilization.

The interior layout is carefully organized into distinct functional zones, including communal living areas, kitchen, and bath, connected by a central space. Extensive glazing allows for ample natural light and views of the surrounding landscape. Each unit offers a unique spatial arrangement: House 1 features an organic, open design that blurs the boundaries between indoors and outdoors; House 2 utilizes strategically placed “umbrellas” to create differentiated areas; and House 4 adopts an orthogonal grid layout to promote efficient space usage.

## Material Selection and Water Management
The use of sustainable materials is a key aspect of the design, comprising concrete for structural elements, extensive glass for light penetration, and natural materials such as stone and soil for water filtration systems. The roof gardens, planted with native vegetation, enhance insulation and promote local biodiversity.

A sophisticated water management system distinguishes the project, designed to harvest and treat rainwater through layers of plant-based filtration. This system manages both "brown water," originating from household wastewater, and "clean water," which is stored underground after filtration. The implementation of these systems reduces environmental impact, exemplifying a commitment to sustainability and ecological integration in contemporary architecture.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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

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