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Thermobattery-Enabled Micro Homes with Vertical Timber Cladding and Rainwater Harvesting Systems

Author:
Matthias Veen
Thermobattery-Enabled Micro Homes with Vertical Timber Cladding and Rainwater Harvesting Systems

Project in-detail

Engineered with a thermobattery system and clad in vertical timber slats, these micro homes incorporate rainwater harvesting and sustainable design practices to foster a new model of affordable rural living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Engineered with a thermobattery for efficient energy storage.
02
Utilizes vertical timber slats for enhanced insulation and aesthetics.
03
Incorporates advanced rainwater harvesting systems for sustainability.
04
Features a bent A-frame design optimizing structural integrity.
05
Promotes agricultural integration through shared communal spaces.

### Overview
The Reland project is located in the Algarve region of Portugal, an area experiencing a decline in agricultural practices while possessing a rich tapestry of cultural and natural resources. The intent of the project is to address the urgent need for affordable housing and sustainable living solutions for younger local residents and professionals, all while preserving the integrity of existing farmland. This initiative merges modern architectural design with agricultural traditions, fostering a balance between rural life and functional living.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience
The interior layout of the micro-homes is meticulously designed to enhance space utility and promote a communal lifestyle. Open living areas are paired with essential amenities, such as kitchens and sleeping quarters, facilitating flexibility and comfort. Sliding doors are incorporated to provide adaptability in the space, allowing for both an expansive feel and privacy as needed. The architectural form, featuring a compact shape with sloped roofs, not only serves aesthetic purposes but also effectively collects rainwater, optimizing resource use.

### Materiality and Sustainable Systems
Construction materials are selected for sustainability and performance. Timber, as the predominant material, improves thermal efficiency while adding warmth to the interiors. Metal components ensure structural resilience, and large glass windows enhance natural lighting and connectivity to the landscape. The project exemplifies sustainable practices through integrated systems including rainwater capture, greywater recycling, and solar energy harnessing, supported by an innovative thermal battery for energy storage. Furthermore, provisions for organic waste management underscore a commitment to a circular economy, enriching both the living environment and the surrounding agricultural landscape.

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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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