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Retractable Staircase and Rainwater Harvesting Enhance Micro-Living with Natural Materials

Author:
Michela Quadrelli
Retractable Staircase and Rainwater Harvesting Enhance Micro-Living with Natural Materials

Project in-detail

The retractable staircase and rainwater harvesting system within this micro-living design utilize wood and glass to create a flexible, sustainable residence that optimizes space and connects occupants to their environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Retractable staircase maximizes vertical space efficiency.
02
Rainwater harvesting system supports sustainable living practices.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity and thermal performance.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer durability and aesthetic appeal.
05
Flexible room layouts accommodate changing resident needs.

## Project Overview

WELC-HOME is situated in a context that prioritizes environmental integration, exemplifying a modern approach to micro-housing that balances livability with sustainability. The design aims to create a coherent living environment that addresses the compact nature of micro-living while maintaining essential functionalities and visual appeal.

## Spatial Configuration

The interior layout is strategically designed to optimize space while providing necessary privacy and communal areas. The open kitchen and dining area foster social interaction, while the flexible working area accommodates various functions, including study and creative pursuits. Bedrooms feature sliding partitions, allowing for adaptable arrangements based on occupant needs. A retractable staircase efficiently connects the main floor to an auxiliary area above, illustrating an innovative use of vertical space, which is further emphasized by the inclusion of a second level that can accommodate additional sleeping or recreational functions.

## Materiality and Sustainability

Key materials include wood, which serves as a structural element, enhancing warmth and establishing a connection with the outdoor environment. Glass is utilized for windows and partitions, promoting natural light and visual engagement with surrounding landscapes. Steel components contribute to durability, while insulated panels boost energy efficiency. The design incorporates renewable energy solutions, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, supporting a self-sufficient lifestyle. These features collectively reflect a commitment to sustainable practices while ensuring an enriching living experience.

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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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