Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Timber and Brick Modular Homes with Adaptable Rainwater Systems

Author:
Mat Reid
Timber and Brick Modular Homes with Adaptable Rainwater Systems

Project in-detail

Built with modular timber and brick components, the design incorporates advanced rainwater systems to create adaptable homes that respond to evolving family needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built using modular timber and brick components for efficient construction.
02
Incorporates integrated rainwater management systems for water sustainability.
03
Designed for easy reconfiguration to accommodate changing family dynamics.
04
Emphasizes natural light through strategically placed windows for energy efficiency.
05
Offers customizable layouts that allow homeowners to personalize their living spaces.

The project in Australia addresses the urgent demand for quality and affordable housing by focusing on modular design and adaptability. With many homes built by project builders lacking in quality, the aim is to set a new standard in residential architecture. The central idea is to design homes that can adjust to changing family needs while also providing practical and welcoming spaces.

Conceptual Framework

At the heart of the design is the concept of flexibility. Each home is built with modular components, allowing for easy changes and reconfigurations. This feature means that as families grow or evolve, their living spaces can adapt accordingly. The layout emphasizes open and connected areas that promote interaction while also ensuring privacy for residents.

Flexibility and Customization

An important aspect of the design is the ability for homeowners to personalize their spaces. This emphasis on customization means that people can make choices that suit their lifestyles and preferences. The homes remain structurally sound while also reflecting the individual tastes of their occupants. This approach leads to an enhancement of comfort and functionality, making each residence unique.

Integration with Natural Elements

The project pays close attention to incorporating natural light and outdoor components into the designs. Strategic placement of windows allows for ample daylight, enhancing energy efficiency and improving the overall living experience. The relationship between interior and exterior spaces is carefully crafted, fostering an inviting atmosphere that encourages connection with the outdoors.

Material Selection and Sustainability

The homes are constructed using modular components made from traditional materials, including timber, brick, tile, sheet metal, and cementitious sheets. This choice of materials not only provides a pleasant visual appeal but also ensures durability. Incorporating essential services such as power, water, rainwater systems, data, and lighting within prefabricated units simplifies construction. This setup allows for easy upgrades and modifications in the future, maintaining a focus on sustainability and practicality.

Every element is designed with utility and comfort in mind. The project ultimately results in homes that meet the demands of modern living while remaining accessible and adaptable to various lifestyles. As families change and grow, these homes represent a thoughtful response to contemporary housing challenges.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy