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Subsurface Water Harvesting With Native Reeds and Flexible Living Modules

Authors:
Jorge Armando Rojas Talledo, Manuel Fernando Amaro Núñez, Jose Luis Elias Piedra, Olga Leticia Aquino Cama
Subsurface Water Harvesting With Native Reeds and Flexible Living Modules

Project in-detail

Harnessing ancient water management techniques, the design integrates Totora reeds and modular living spaces to address water scarcity while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates traditional Amunas water channels for effective rainwater harvesting.
02
Constructed primarily from locally sourced Totora reeds for sustainability.
03
Features modular living units adaptable to residents' needs and changing climates.
04
Incorporates hydroponic gardens for on-site food production and ecological education.
05
Promotes community involvement in construction and ongoing maintenance efforts.

## Project Overview
The Amunas initiative addresses water scarcity in the Andean region, specifically in areas experiencing significant global water stress. The design integrates traditional agricultural practices with contemporary sustainability principles, focusing on water management through a canal system that filters and retains rainwater to enhance agricultural viability.

## Architectural Composition and Spatial Organization
The layout features a microhome structured around a central atrium, fostering a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. This design promotes natural light and ventilation, contributing to occupant comfort. The microhome is organized into modular units, allowing flexibility for various living needs. Each module serves a distinct purpose, including sleeping, working, kitchen, and bathroom areas. Hydroponic gardens are incorporated into living spaces, providing sources of food while enhancing residents' connection to their environment. The kitchen is designed with a traditional wood-burning stove, which prioritizes efficiency and low emissions.

## Water Management and Materials
The project employs advanced water harvesting techniques to facilitate sustainable domestic water use and recharge local aquifers. Approximately 30% of the captured water is allocated for daily household needs, while 70% is directed for infiltration purposes. Key materials are sourced locally to decrease environmental impact; these include totora reeds for insulation, local wood for structural elements, and recycled glass to optimize lighting. By utilizing around 80% local materials, the project emphasizes ecological efficiency and supports the local economy. Additionally, the integration of hydroponic systems allows for efficient food production and resource management, reinforcing the initiative's commitment to sustainability within its design framework.

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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
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