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Transformable Living Space with Plywood and Efficient Rainwater Management

Authors:
Phạm Hoài Cẩm Thảo , Minh Hòa Ngô
Transformable Living Space with Plywood and Efficient Rainwater Management

Project in-detail

A modular living space utilizes plywood and efficient rainwater management to provide a flexible solution for urban residents seeking a sustainable and multifunctional environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular furniture allows seamless transformation from workspace to sleeping area.
02
Large, adjustable glass panes enhance natural ventilation and light.
03
Integrated rainwater collection systems support sustainable water use.
04
Constructed primarily with lightweight plywood for easy transport and assembly.
05
The design emphasizes a strong connection to the surrounding urban landscape.

### Overview

Located in a densely populated area of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, the project addresses the unique needs of young residents living in temporary urban settings. With an emphasis on fostering a connection to nature within a multifunctional space, the design seeks to enhance the quality of life for its users. It incorporates a modular approach that allows for flexibility, catering to the evolving lifestyles of urban inhabitants.

### Spatial Strategy and Functionality

The layout consists of a compact structure measuring approximately 8x4 meters, effectively optimizing living and working areas. A key feature is a dynamic modular table that serves dual purposes—transforming from a workspace during the day to a bed at night. This design encourages productivity while accommodating rest, adapting to the rhythm of daily life. The innovative configuration includes a window-integrated table and bed system, promoting versatility in urban living while responding to the habitual needs of young professionals.

### Sustainable Practices and Material Choices

The project showcases a commitment to sustainability through thoughtful material selection and eco-friendly systems. Plywood is utilized for internal finishes and furniture, highlighting its sustainable properties. Foam insulation enhances thermal performance, essential for the tropical climate, while a steel frame ensures structural integrity and facilitates efficient construction processes. The incorporation of Kingspan QuadCore Wall Panels optimizes energy efficiency, and rooftop solar panels harness renewable energy sources. Water efficiency is further supported by a rainwater harvesting system, designed to serve multiple household functions. The project minimizes its carbon footprint by using locally sourced, lightweight materials, aligning with contemporary sustainability goals.

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

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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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