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Stonewell and Rainwater Systems Integrated into Timber Living Spaces

Authors:
Eliza Voiculescu, Ana-maria Avramescu, Ruxandra Lupu, Alexandru-bogdan Ferent
Stonewell and Rainwater Systems Integrated into Timber Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating a stonewell and an efficient rainwater collection system, the design integrates timber-based living spaces to facilitate communal activities for families in a harmonious environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a stonewell for water retention and traditional resource application.
02
Incorporates a rainwater collection system to promote sustainability.
03
Features timber frame construction complemented by straw thermal insulation.
04
Restores original stone wells to preserve historical elements.
05
Employs a schinkel on the roof to enhance local biodiversity.

The design emphasizes the idea of Linkage, situated in an environment that encourages community interaction. The central function is to create a platform that supports various activities while allowing families to live and work closely together. The overall design concept integrates the built environment with the surrounding natural landscape, fostering a sense of harmony between the two.

Preservation of Existing Structures
The project focuses on maintaining parts of existing houses, recognizing the cultural and historical significance they hold. By keeping traditional architectural features, such as the shape of the roofs, the design respects the past while making it relevant to current needs. This approach link the community's heritage with modern living.

Spatial Organization
The layout includes paths and open spaces that enhance the connection between indoor and outdoor areas. This organization is intentional, encouraging interaction among residents while responding to their functional needs. The design allows for a natural flow of daily activities, creating a coherent living and working environment.

Sustainability Features
Sustainability is a key aspect of the project. It includes systems for collecting rainwater, which reduces waste and promotes resource reuse. The design utilizes a timber frame structure and straw thermal insulation, reflecting a focus on energy efficiency. These choices show a commitment to environmental responsibility in building practices.

Unique Design Elements
Notable features include preparation areas for natural paints and the restoration of original stone wells. These details tie modern practices with traditional elements, enriching the project’s narrative. The placement of a schinkel on the roof for bat circulation highlights the integration of biodiversity into city design, underscoring a respect for nature while enhancing the urban experience.

Throughout the design, attention to detail is clear. This focus fosters a sense of community, illustrating how architecture can enrich everyday life for residents.

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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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