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Rainwater-Recycling Microhome with Lofted Bed and Vertical Garden

Author:
Graham Oakley
Rainwater-Recycling Microhome with Lofted Bed and Vertical Garden

Project in-detail

Incorporating rainwater collection systems and a lofted bed within a compact footprint, this microhome offers sustainable living solutions through vertical garden integration and an efficient multi-level design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rainwater receptacles serve multiple functions, including irrigation and drinking water.
02
The lofted bed optimizes vertical space while maintaining comfort.
03
Photovoltaic solar panels provide energy independence for residents.
04
A vertical garden enhances sustainability and promotes urban greening.
05
Local material sourcing reduces transportation emissions and supports the community.

The Kit microhome is designed with sustainability and practicality in mind, situated in various locations such as Galena, Illinois, Powderhorn, Colorado, and South Boston, Massachusetts. The compact dwelling aims to maximize space while providing essential living areas. The concept revolves around three main principles: transportation, verticality, and flexibility. These ideals focus on reducing the environmental impact of material sourcing and transportation, presenting a modern solution to housing needs.

Spatial Organization

Multiple levels create an organized layout that addresses the everyday needs of the residents. The third level includes a terrace, WC, shower, built-in wardrobe, and office space within 9.7 square meters. On the second level, there is a kitchen, storage, living area, and restroom, all contained within a total area of 11.7 square meters. Each space is intentionally designed to ensure efficient use without sacrificing comfort.



Verticality and Functionality

To utilize vertical space effectively, a lofted bed features 1.3 meters of headroom. This design choice helps maximize the floor area while maintaining comfort in the small living environment. By arranging spaces in this manner, the microhome enhances usability and creates an open, airy feel.



Sustainable Systems

Sustainability is an integral aspect of The Kit. Two 190-liter water receptacles collect rainwater, which is used for various purposes, including bathing, drinking, and watering a vertical garden. The roof also incorporates photovoltaic solar panels, enabling the home to harness solar energy for its needs, promoting energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.



Flexibility and Longevity

The Kit microhome offers flexibility, allowing the living space to adapt as the needs of its inhabitants change. It is designed with a projected lifespan of 50 to 100 years, depending on the location. The approach emphasizes the deconstruction and reuse of materials, reinforcing the principles of sustainability throughout its lifetime.



As practical elements come together, such as rainwater collection and solar power, the microhome fosters an eco-friendly lifestyle. Its thoughtful design offers a self-sufficient living environment that meets the evolving requirements of its residents while remaining sensitive to ecological considerations.

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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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