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Screw Piles and Polyethylene Pipes in Compact Living Solutions

Authors:
Thomas Garofalo, Marco Frassetto, Diana carolina Trejos bravo, Giulia Negri
Screw Piles and Polyethylene Pipes in Compact Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing screw piles and a polyethylene water management system, the design offers a compact, self-sufficient living space that adapts to various environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes screw piles for anchoring without invasive ground excavation.
02
Incorporates a polyethylene pipe system for efficient water storage and passive heating.
03
Features foldaway furniture for adaptable interior space usage.
04
Employs thin-film solar modules for complete energy self-sufficiency.
05
Designed as a flexible, off-grid solution for diverse environmental settings.

The WILD CORE SLEEPING PODS project is an innovative solution for minimal impact living. Designed to efficiently utilize a compact area of under 20 m², the structure combines essential elements such as storage, a bathroom, and a sleeping space. The focus is on self-sufficiency, reducing dependence on traditional utility services. This design offers a modern response to the challenge of sustainable living while fitting into a variety of natural settings.

Spatial Organization

The interior layout puts flexibility at the forefront. A functional core groups utility spaces together, allowing for a larger main area that can serve multiple purposes. Retractable and foldaway furniture is integrated into the design, which enables users to adapt the space according to their needs. This thoughtful arrangement supports a range of activities within a limited footprint.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a key principle behind the design. Thin-film solar modules produce renewable energy, supplying power to the pod's electrical systems and heat pump. This method reduces energy costs while providing reliable heating and cooling. Additionally, a water management system utilizing polyethylene pipes offers storage for a week’s worth of clean water. This system also benefits from passive heating techniques, ensuring an efficient approach to water use.

Construction Methodology

The construction process is designed for efficiency and minimal environmental disruption. The structure is anchored by screw piles, which are installed without significant excavation. This allows for fast installation and straightforward removal if necessary. The assembly features paired wooden pillars and prefabricated panels, making the building process quick while maintaining a focus on sustainability.

Design Integration

A standout feature of the design is its adaptability to different environments. The sleeping pod can be placed in a variety of natural settings without harming the landscape. Large glass doors open to an outdoor deck, creating a strong connection between the inside and outside. This design choice promotes fresh air and natural light, enhancing the overall living experience. The structure emphasizes a conscious relationship with nature, offering a practical solution for modern living.

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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

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