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Vapor-Collecting Membrane and Flexible Solar Panels in a Sustainable Living Environment

Authors:
Marcell Gal, Hajnalka Juhasz
Vapor-Collecting Membrane and Flexible Solar Panels in a Sustainable Living Environment

Project in-detail

Harnessing atmospheric moisture through a specialized harvesting membrane and integrating flexible solar panels, this sustainable structure offers self-sufficient living in arid regions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features a water-catching membrane designed to extract moisture from the atmosphere.
02
Incorporates flexible solar panels, enabling adaptive energy generation based on sun position.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
04
Includes charred wooden shingles that enhance durability while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
05
Offers modular living spaces that can be customized for various resident needs.

## Project Overview

The Air Braker project addresses drinking water scarcity in arid regions by creating a self-sufficient structure that collects atmospheric moisture and harnesses solar energy. Intended for deployment across various geographic and climatic contexts, the design offers a practical solution for communities facing significant water access challenges. Its adaptability allows for a range of configurations to suit diverse environments and living conditions.

### Water Harvesting and Energy Production

The architectural design incorporates an innovative water catchment system that utilizes a specialized membrane positioned above the structure to extract vapor from the air. This minimizes reliance on mechanical systems and is particularly beneficial in remote areas lacking conventional infrastructure. Additionally, flexible solar panels integrated into the exterior facilitate autonomous energy generation, enhancing the building's self-sufficiency while reducing its environmental footprint.

### Spatial Configuration and Material Selection

The structure's interior is designed for multifunctionality, featuring spatial arrangements that cater to various daily activities, including relaxation and community gatherings. Such configurations include a foundational arrangement for everyday use and more compact setups to maximize functionality within limited space.

Materials selected for construction emphasize sustainability and practicality, including wood for structural integrity and warmth, a flexible transparent membrane for light penetration and water catchment, and a metal framework to ensure durability. Furthermore, a green roof system supports local vegetation, contributing to the building's ecological impact and further reinforcing its commitment to environmental responsibility.

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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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