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Repurposed Bottles and Natural Materials Create a Sustainable Living Space

Author:
Carlos Barba
Repurposed Bottles and Natural Materials Create a Sustainable Living Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing repurposed soda bottles and recycled construction debris, the design embodies a modular approach to sustainable living that addresses urban housing needs through community engagement and resourcefulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes repurposed soda bottles as structural insulation.
02
Incorporates local construction debris into design elements.
03
Features a modular assembly for easy adaptability.
04
Employs eco-friendly adhesives for structural integrity.
05
Encourages community participation in the construction process.

## Project Overview

"THIS IS NOT GARBAGE" is a housing initiative focused on redefining construction methodologies through the innovative use of waste materials. Designed as a "Do It Yourself" walls house, it addresses pressing concerns regarding urban waste generated by traditional construction activities. The intent is to create sustainable housing solutions that foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among residents toward waste management and resource utilization.

## Material Reclamation and Use

The project employs a diverse array of materials typically classified as waste, including urban debris, plastics, and recycled construction components. Key elements of construction include soda bottle boxes for structural integrity and insulation, while recycled construction debris integrates past materials into new builds. The use of eco-friendly adhesives replaces traditional mortar, minimizing environmental impact and visual clutter. Additional materials such as woods, cardboard, and biodegradable coatings support durability and aesthetics while promoting interior comfort through improved insulation.

## Spatial Design and Modularity

Covering an area of 25 m², the design embodies a minimalist approach characterized by functionality and adaptability. Modular construction allows for flexibility in layout, enabling future modifications or expansions based on occupants' needs. Aesthetic considerations focus on organic lines and open spaces, which enhance natural light and ventilation within the structure. The design not only prioritizes livability but also encourages community involvement through its do-it-yourself framework, effectively transforming waste into valuable resources.

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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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