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Solar-Powered Micro Home with Integrated Greenhouse

Authors:
Nicolas Nicolaou, Pouyan Hassanzadeh, Luigi Finca
Solar-Powered Micro Home with Integrated Greenhouse
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Equipped with solar panels and an integrated greenhouse, the compact living space offers innovative solutions for sustainable urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrated greenhouse encourages urban agriculture.
02
Solar panels generate surplus energy for residents.
03
Modular design allows for easy relocation and expansion.
04
Waste management system supports sustainable living.
05
Large windows enhance natural light and ventilation.

The MicroHome project addresses the growing need for efficient housing solutions that prioritize sustainability in modern living. Located in a variety of landscapes, the design aims to provide a compact yet functional living environment. The overall concept focuses on minimalism, making the most of limited space while incorporating essential amenities and features for everyday life.

Architectural Features

The MicroHome encompasses a living area of 21 square meters, along with an extra 38 square meters designated for outdoor use. The layout is thoughtfully designed to include a bedroom, living room, bathroom, kitchen, and storage facilities. This organization ensures that the space remains functional and comfortable, allowing residents to make the most of their surroundings without feeling cramped.



Flexibility and Adaptability

Flexibility is a significant aspect of the MicroHome. The design allows for easy relocation and the connection of multiple units, enabling occupants to adjust their living space according to their needs. This versatility is well-suited for both long-term residency and short-term use, making it a practical solution for various lifestyles in changing environments.



Sustainability Elements

The use of renewable energy is a primary focus of the MicroHome. Equipped with solar panels on the roof, the structure is designed to produce more energy than it consumes. This surplus energy can potentially be sold back to the grid, supporting cost-effective living. Additionally, the greenhouse integrated into the design encourages residents to grow their own food, fostering a sense of sustainability and self-reliance.



Construction and Assembly

The assembly process is simple and efficient, aimed at reducing waste. The MicroHome can be built without requiring specialized skills, making it accessible to a broader audience. This straightforward approach not only minimizes the environmental impact but also lowers barriers to homeownership, promoting a practical housing model for many.



Large windows throughout the design provide natural light and ventilation, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere inside the MicroHome. These elements enhance the living experience, ensuring that the space is not only functional but also enjoyable for its residents.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

`
Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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