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Screw Foundations and Aluminum Facade in Self-Sufficient Compact Living

Author:
Michaela Rüßmann
Screw Foundations and Aluminum Facade in Self-Sufficient Compact Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing screw foundations and an aluminum facade, the design achieves a compact, self-sufficient living environment that effectively captures solar energy and manages water resources.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes screw foundations for enhanced air circulation and ground permeability.
02
Incorporates a dual-purpose facade that serves as both insulation and exterior cladding.
03
Employs a photovoltaic system angled for optimal solar energy capture regardless of orientation.
04
Features a rainwater management system that separates collection and usage for improved efficiency.
05
Integrates a serving function shaft housing solar storage and water filtration for centralized utility access.

The design emphasizes self-sufficient living within a small footprint. It is located in a context that values sustainability and environmental responsibility. The structure integrates renewable energy and efficient water management systems, providing a practical solution for modern housing needs aimed at reducing ecological impact.

Solar Energy Integration

The roof includes a photovoltaic system angled at less than 10 degrees. This setup allows the building to capture solar energy effectively, no matter its orientation. The design also promotes air movement, which aids in energy production. By incorporating renewable energy sources in such a straightforward way, the architecture supports eco-friendly living.

Water Management Strategies

The water management system seeks to make the most of rainwater. It captures this resource and allows it to be filtered and used for different purposes, including heating and repurposing as wastewater. By separating the water systems during collection, the design enhances overall efficiency. This approach highlights a commitment to responsible resource use.

Structural Considerations

The structure is raised on screw foundations that keep the floor plate elevated above the ground. This allows air to circulate freely and prevents the sealing of the surface beneath. By doing so, the design promotes better interaction with the environment. The use of space within the support framework is optimized, creating usable areas without expanding the overall size of the building.

Facade and Thermal Performance

The facade is both a protective outer layer and an insulation component. It is designed to maximize thermal efficiency and reduce energy loss. Included materials such as aluminum slating and clay construction boards are chosen for their beneficial properties. By maintaining low thermal transmittance, the design fits well within energy-saving goals.

Additionally, a serving function shaft incorporates solar storage and water filtration. This part of the structure serves as a central location for utilities, simplifying their use. With careful attention to design details, the building promotes a practical and sustainable 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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