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Vertical Gardens and Photovoltaic Panels in a Compact Off-Grid Home

Author:
Brian Ferrell
Vertical Gardens and Photovoltaic Panels in a Compact Off-Grid Home

Project in-detail

Employing photovoltaic panels and vertical gardens, the compact home offers an adaptive off-grid living solution that promotes sustainability and resource efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs rainwater collection to irrigate vertical gardens.
02
Features a modular design for efficient transport and assembly.
03
Integrates photovoltaic panels for complete energy independence.
04
Utilizes a central bedroom core to organize living spaces.
05
Adaptable glazing system to respond to varying climatic conditions.

The design is situated in North Carolina, focusing on the growing need for sustainable and adaptable housing. It offers a compact living solution that can operate in both urban and rural settings. The home can serve as a standalone off-grid residence or integrate into a small community. The concept centers around energy independence and efficient use of space, catering to contemporary shifts brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Design Layout

At the core of the structure is a central bedroom area, which organizes the overall layout and serves as a pivot for two wings. This layout creates an exterior space that connects with the interior. Pocket doors open up this area, expanding the living space and promoting interaction with nature. This approach considers the pleasant climate of North Carolina, allowing the design to adapt to seasonal changes.

Sustainable Features

Sustainability is a key focus of the design. It features solar panels, passive cooling systems, and a rainwater collection setup, allowing the home to function independently of traditional energy sources. Composting systems are also part of the design, which contributes to a lower environmental impact. These elements work together to support eco-friendly living.

Modular Construction

The construction method is modular, meaning parts are built in advance and then assembled on-site. This process allows for faster completion and easier transport to locations. The design also accommodates changes in climate, such as using wood frames instead of traditional glazing, enhancing comfort while addressing different weather conditions.

Vertical Gardens

Noteworthy is the inclusion of vertical gardens that utilize rainwater for irrigation. This feature improves the visual appeal of the home while providing fresh produce for occupants. These gardens help enhance biodiversity and strengthen the connection between the structure and its natural surroundings. The design encourages a lifestyle that appreciates both the home and the environment.

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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
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