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Rainwater Harvesting With Xlam Structures In Modular Living Spaces

Authors:
Angela Cuman, Emma Battistin, Laura Palazzi, Maja Peirano
Rainwater Harvesting With Xlam Structures In Modular Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Equipped with a rainwater harvesting system and constructed using an Xlam framework, these modular living spaces provide an environmentally sensitive solution adaptable to diverse climatic conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units designed for easy rearrangement to fit site-specific conditions.
02
Integrated rainwater harvesting system enhances sustainability and self-sufficiency.
03
Constructed with an efficient Xlam framework for improved structural integrity.
04
Facades clad in wooden slats contribute to thermal performance and aesthetic appeal.
05
Solar greenhouse promotes biodiversity and provides natural cooling for living spaces.

IMPLUVIUM WOODEN offers a modular housing solution designed for both Mediterranean and Alpine climates. The project focuses on flexibility and sustainability, featuring nine distinct modular units. These units adapt to various living needs and promote a practical approach to construction and habitation. The design seeks to create comfortable living spaces through careful planning and environmental consideration.

Modularity and Efficiency

The design features nine modular units, most of which are dimensioned at 3x4x3.3 meters. This uniform size allows for various arrangements, accommodating the unique preferences of residents. The construction process is methodical, including important stages such as excavation, tank insertion, and the positioning of a concrete slab foundation. These steps ensure a smooth building experience and expedite the transition to livable spaces.

Sustainable Design Features

Sustainability is a key aspect of the design. Each housing unit incorporates photovoltaic panels, generating energy to reduce reliance on external methods. Additionally, there is a solar greenhouse that supports natural cooling and enhances local biodiversity. The rainwater harvesting system comprises components such as impluviums and UV filters, emphasizing the overall commitment to efficient water management.

Material and Construction Details

Construction relies on a lightweight Xlam framework that provides strength and durability. The facade is clad with wooden slats, which adds visual appeal and improves thermal performance. Various insulation types contribute to maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. A breathable exterior plaster is applied to enhance resilience against changing weather conditions, ensuring longevity.

Final Design Detail

The arrangement of the modular units allows for the creation of community spaces that foster interaction among residents. By designing neighborhoods that blend individual living areas with shared environments, the proposal encourages a sense of belonging while respecting personal privacy. Ultimately, the design reflects a modern approach to housing that considers both individual and communal needs.

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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
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