Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Tubular Wood Shelter with Integrated Biofiltration System

Authors:
Jacinto jesús Moros montañés, Julia Otaño gonzalez, Carmen Garrido herranz, Nuria Martinez morales
Tubular Wood Shelter with Integrated Biofiltration System

Project in-detail

Featuring a dual-layer facade of tubular wood and an innovative graywater biofiltration system, the design offers a sustainable living space that fosters a close connection to the surrounding forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Tubular wood structure designed to blend with forest surroundings.
02
Elliptical stairway facilitating vertical movement between functional areas.
03
Integrated graywater biofiltration system for sustainable water management.
04
Resting area positioned for optimal views of the valley.
05
Dual-layer facade enhancing thermal regulation and privacy.

The KRYSÁLIDA project presents a unique solution that integrates architecture with the forest environment while prioritizing sustainability and user comfort. Located among trees, the design acts as a refuge that harmonizes with nature, combining essential amenities with a thoughtful connection to the surrounding landscape. The overall concept revolves around creating a living space inspired by the growth patterns of trees, enhancing the relationship between inhabitants and their environment.

Conceptual Design

The design features a dual-layer facade that supports temperature regulation and protects against wind. This double skin not only shelters inhabitants but also provides visual privacy, allowing users to be part of the environment without losing their personal space. The organic forms and lines contribute to a welcoming presence, reinforcing the theme of unity with the forest.

Spatial Arrangement

A key feature of the project is an elliptical stairway that connects the various living areas, including storage, bathroom, and sleeping spaces. This vertical movement is more than just functional; it creates a sense of hierarchy within the structure and encourages occupants to engage with the views around them. The layout is carefully planned, ensuring usability while maintaining a close relationship with nature.

Material Choices

The use of tubular wood tubes in the outer structure aligns with the project's ecological goals, offering both durability and a connection to the forest. This material choice not only supports the building’s integrity but also reduces its environmental impact. Inside, wood continues to play a significant role, creating warmth and a sense of comfort that connects residents to their surroundings.

Sustainable Practices

An important part of the project is its biofiltration system, which repurposes gray water for irrigation. This innovative system manages water use and wastewater effectively while enhancing the natural landscape. By doing so, the design promotes biodiversity and showcases practical approaches to sustainability.

In the evenings, soft ambient lighting creates a calm atmosphere. This detail encourages occupants to pause and enjoy the peacefulness of the surrounding environment. Overall, the careful consideration of spatial elements and materials contributes to a living experience that is closely linked with nature.

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