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Vertical Gardens And Rainwater Tanks In A Tropical Community Retreat

Authors:
Sebastian Lee, Tun han Fu, Yu hong Tham
Vertical Gardens And Rainwater Tanks In A Tropical Community Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating rainwater tanks and vertical gardens, the design serves as a sustainable community retreat that promotes local agriculture and ecological practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system integrated into the building’s structure.
02
Features vertical gardens designed to enhance biodiversity and improve air quality.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and thermal performance.
05
Includes a community hall that serves as a multifunctional space for local engagement.
The "Rainwater Collecting Tower" is an architectural project designed to address water scarcity issues in Cambodia. The structure serves as both a functional water collection hub and a community-oriented retreat, fostering a sustainable lifestyle among its users. The overall design integrates essential agricultural practices with residential living, creating an environment conducive to self-sufficiency and ecological awareness.

Sustainable Architecture and Functionality

The project highlights sustainability through its rainwater harvesting system, which is a central design element. This system collects and stores rainwater, reducing reliance on external water sources and promoting responsible water use. The tower features transparent tanks that showcase the rainwater collection process, enhancing both functionality and visual appeal. In addition to water collection, the design includes a community hall and clubhouse, providing spaces for social interaction and education on sustainable practices. The organic farming area promotes local agriculture, encouraging residents to grow their own food and engage more meaningfully with their surroundings.

Innovative Design Approaches

What sets this project apart from others is its emphasis on integrating nature into both the architectural design and the user experience. The incorporation of green walls promotes biodiversity while improving air quality. Natural pathways enhance circulation through the site, encouraging interaction between residents and the surrounding landscape. The design prioritizes natural light and ventilation, reducing energy consumption and creating a serene living environment.

Community Engagement and Integration

The architectural layout supports community engagement through its strategic placement of communal spaces and functional areas. The design fosters connections among residents, encouraging collaboration and a shared commitment to sustainable living. This approach not only enhances the user experience but also cultivates resilience within the community.

For a more detailed understanding of this project, including its architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. This will provide deeper insights into the design process and the architectural solutions implemented to address contemporary challenges in sustainable living.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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