Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Vertical Farming and Rainwater Systems in a Compact Microhome

Authors:
Ashwani Singh, Himanshu Sharma
Vertical Farming and Rainwater Systems in a Compact Microhome

Project in-detail

Equipped with rainwater harvesting and vertical farming systems, this compact microhome integrates sustainable technologies within a 25 square meter footprint to provide adaptable living solutions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Equipped with a biogas production system for energy generation.
02
Features a multifunctional activity area that adapts to various uses.
03
Utilizes greywater for sustainable vertical farming.
04
Designed for off-grid living, allowing relocation without local infrastructure.
05
Incorporates thermal insulation using glass wool for energy efficiency.

The Nomadic Hive project presents an innovative solution to the challenges of modern urban living, focusing on the need for efficient use of space in environments facing resource limitations and population pressures. It functions as a compact microhome, designed to fit essential living spaces within a total area of 25 square meters. The concept emphasizes flexibility, enabling the structure to adapt to the various needs of residents while promoting sustainable living practices.

Design Organization

The layout of the Nomadic Hive is thoughtfully structured with an open-plan design that includes distinct areas such as a bedroom, kitchen, toilet, and a versatile activity space. This organization allows for easy interaction among residents, fostering a sense of community while also providing necessary privacy. By carefully positioning private spaces away from public areas, the design enhances overall livability and addresses the different social dynamics within the home.

Vertical Utilization

A key aspect of the design is the effective use of vertical space. This strategy enables the addition of personal zones within the microhome's compact footprint. By maximizing verticality, the design offers intimacy and comfort in a limited area, demonstrating a clear understanding of residential needs even when space is constrained. This aspect showcases how thoughtful design can provide both openness and privacy in a small dwelling.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a central theme throughout the project. The Nomadic Hive includes systems for rainwater collection, biogas production, solar energy generation, and vertical farming using greywater. These features contribute not only to self-sufficiency but also help to reduce the ecological impact of the dwelling. The off-grid nature of the project allows it to be placed in various locations without relying on local infrastructure, making it a versatile housing option.

Material Considerations

In terms of materials, glass wool and fibrous compounds are chosen for thermal insulation. These materials improve energy efficiency and maintain a comfortable indoor environment. By selecting materials that respond well to external climate changes, the design aims to create a durable living space that supports the needs of its residents. The careful attention to material and method reflects a commitment to creating a sustainable habitat that balances functionality with environmental responsibility.

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