Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

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

Author:
Rainwater Harvesting Through Funnel Architecture with Local Stone and Thermal Mass Utilization
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
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.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

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 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in