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Reflective Metal Bowl Integrating Water Management in Mountain Residence

Author:
Anfisa Olennikova
Reflective Metal Bowl Integrating Water Management in Mountain Residence

Project in-detail

A large funnel-like bowl captures and manages rainwater while dividing the interior of this mountain residence into functional spaces, seamlessly blending with wooden and stone materials to create an integrated living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central funnel captures rainwater and integrates into the interior layout.
02
Sundecks extend outward, encouraging interaction with the surrounding landscape.
03
The design emphasizes natural light through large, flexible glass openings.
04
Walls made of stone reflect regional building traditions and context.
05
The residence's orientation leverages sunlight for energy efficiency throughout the day.

The design is set in a mountainous area and serves as a home that connects closely with its environment. The concept centers on the relationship between light and shadow, influenced by the cycles of sunrise and sunset. This approach highlights the integration with the landscape and creates a living space that is both functional and reflective of nature.

Design Orientation
The building faces west, allowing residents to enjoy views of the setting sun. The eastern side looks toward the mountain, providing shade from the bright morning light. The steep terrain is used to create a blend of open and enclosed areas, improving the visual landscape and promoting a sense of balance in the living spaces.

Central Water Collection
A large funnel-like bowl plays a crucial role in the design by acting as a central feature and water collection system. It divides the interior into practical spaces such as the kitchen, bathrooms, and areas meant for yoga practices. This bowl is constructed from reflective metal sheets, which connect to the ceiling and help maintain continuity in the living areas.

Material Use
Wood is used in framing and roofing, giving a warm and natural feel that fits well within the landscape. Stone is chosen for the walls, drawing inspiration from traditional construction techniques found in Vale de Moses. This approach strengthens the connection to the geographical context. Glass windows act as flexible barriers, opening in both directions to promote air circulation and strengthen the link between indoors and outdoors.

Sustainable Features
The design emphasizes sustainability through an innovative water management system. Rainwater is gathered through holes in the roof and directed into the funnel where it is filtered for daily use. This efficient resource management approach underscores a commitment to ecological sensitivity.

The living area extends out toward cardinal points, with sundecks that create spaces for relaxation and social interaction. They offer a place to take in the beautiful surrounding mountains while encouraging a lifestyle that appreciates nature.

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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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