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Sustainable Microhome Utilizing Local Larch Wood and Integrated Rainwater Systems

Author:
Olivia Elise Meredith
Sustainable Microhome Utilizing Local Larch Wood and Integrated Rainwater Systems

Project in-detail

Crafted from local larch wood and designed with integrated rainwater harvesting, the microhome embodies a sustainable approach to modern living while seamlessly connecting its occupants to the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted entirely from locally sourced larch wood, prioritizing regional material use.
02
Incorporates a greywater recycling system to enhance water efficiency.
03
Features a modular workspace that adapts to the occupants' daily routines.
04
Designed with full-height glazing to maximize natural light and scenic views.
05
Integrates passive solar heating through strategic site orientation and shading.

**Project Overview**

Located within Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park in Scotland, the Equilibrium Home is a microhome designed with the principles of balance and harmony in mind, reflecting the Yin and Yang philosophy. The structure aligns with its natural surroundings and focuses on the lived experiences of its inhabitants, aiming to facilitate a lifestyle that harmonizes rest and productivity. This report outlines the fundamental concepts, spatial organization, material choices, and design outcomes integral to the project.

**Spatial Organization and Functional Layout**

The Equilibrium Home’s design is purposefully structured to support a daily rhythm of work, rest, and leisure. The arrangement of both private and communal areas encourages smooth transitions between active and tranquil spaces. Specific zones are tailored to yin qualities—providing calm environments for relaxation—as well as yang attributes—designed for productivity. This duality informs the overall spatial strategy, ensuring each area serves its intended function effectively while promoting a cohesive living experience.

**Material Choices**

A selection of local and sustainable materials reinforces the home’s connection to the surrounding landscape. Larch wood serves as the main cladding and interior finish, lending warmth and cultural resonance. Concrete is utilized for durability in areas such as the kitchen and bathroom, while full-height glazing allows ample natural light, enhancing the interior ambiance. Local plaster and sheep wool insulation underscore the commitment to sustainable practices, contributing to thermal efficiency and minimal environmental impact.

The home's focus on solar orientation reduces energy consumption and integrates eco-friendly systems, including a rainwater harvesting setup and greywater recycling, promoting self-sufficiency. The modular design offers flexible configurations to meet occupants' diverse needs, ensuring minimal disruption to the natural environment.

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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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