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Transparent Water Tank and Timber Louvers in a Sustainable Retreat

Authors:
Sebastian Lee, Tun han Fu, Yu hong Tham
Transparent Water Tank and Timber Louvers in a Sustainable Retreat

Project in-detail

The integration of a transparent water tank and timber louvers in a sustainable structure addresses Cambodian water challenges while providing a tranquil retreat for travelers seeking connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project integrates a large transparent water tank that enhances interior lighting and provides natural insights into the sky.
02
Timber louvers are designed to regulate airflow, ensuring natural ventilation while allowing rainfall to contribute to the interior ambiance.
03
A dedicated organic farming area encourages hands-on agricultural experiences for travelers connecting them with local practices.
04
The roof system is specifically engineered to maximize rainwater capture for daily use and irrigation, addressing regional water scarcity.
05
Natural vegetation is incorporated into the interior through a green wall system, creating a calming microclimate that promotes biodiversity.

The Rainwater Collecting Tower is located in Cambodia, in an area rich with vineyards and organic farming. It serves as a retreat for travelers looking to escape the hustle of urban life while tackling the severe water challenges in the region. The design aims to create a strong bond with nature, integrating the use of resources into everyday living.

Architecture Concept

At the center of the design is the relationship between the natural environment and the built structure. The design includes a hut that combines spaces for private living and communal activities. This layout supports both individual reflection and community engagement, encouraging a self-sufficient lifestyle that connects visitors to the land.

Water Management

A standout feature is the rainwater collection system built into the roof. This system captures and stores rainwater for essential daily activities such as washing and irrigation for farming. By utilizing collected water, the project reduces reliance on outside sources, highlighting the importance of sustainability in water management.

Natural Ventilation

Natural ventilation plays a significant role in the design. Timber louvers on the facade allow fresh air to flow through while filtering sunlight. This setup enhances comfort within the space and encourages interaction with the outside world. Rainwater can enter the interior, providing a sensory connection to the elements.

Transparent Water Feature

The transparent water tank positioned atop the hut serves a dual function. It acts as a reservoir for the stored rainwater and offers views of the sky above. When filled, the tank becomes a calming feature that enhances the environment. This detail brings a sense of peace to the interior while contributing to the overall atmosphere of the living space.

The green wall system, featuring live plants nourished by rainwater, further enriches the habitation. This aspect not only supports local biodiversity but also promotes a sustainable way of living. It brings a piece of the landscape inside, reinforcing the connection between nature and daily life.

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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

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