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Vertical Gardens and Tamarind Wood Integrate Sustainable Living in Rural Habitat

Author:
Eleonore Levieux
Vertical Gardens and Tamarind Wood Integrate Sustainable Living in Rural Habitat

Project in-detail

Constructed with vertical gardens and tamarind wood, the microclimatic ti'kaz serves as a sustainable living space that enhances ecological balance and reflects the cultural heritage of Reunion Island.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with vertical gardens, enhancing biodiversity and food production.
02
Utilizes tamarind wood shingles for solar energy collection and thermal regulation.
03
Incorporates a sophisticated rainwater harvesting system through a wooden mantling.
04
Designed with a west-facing veranda to protect against trade winds while maximizing light.
05
Features phytodepuration beds that integrate local flora for ecological sustainability.

The microclimatic ti'kaz reinterprets the traditional Creole hut in the unique environment of Reunion Island. It serves as a self-sufficient living space that harmonizes with the surrounding nature, creating a home that purifies the air and provides food. The design focuses on making a sustainable lifestyle possible while connecting with local culture, addressing the realities of urbanization and dependence on external resources.

Spatial Organization

A notable feature of the microclimatic ti'kaz is its emphasis on outdoor living, a crucial aspect of daily life in the region. The layout includes a veranda oriented to the west, providing shelter from the strong trade winds while welcoming natural light and airflow. This combination enhances the interaction between indoor and outdoor areas, making the living experience more enjoyable and effective.

Water Management

The design incorporates an efficient rainwater harvesting system, highlighted by a wooden mantling that directs rainwater appropriately. Beneath the side walls, small bushes are planted to absorb water, preventing unnecessary splashing. These plants not only contribute to the system but also support phytodepuration, enhancing the ecological stability of the habitat.

Vertical Gardens

Surrounding the structure are vertical hydrological gardens made from bamboo panels, which create an environment that is both breathable and productive. This design element enriches the visual appeal of the building and promotes biodiversity. These gardens are essential for regulating the microclimate, emphasizing the thoughtful integration of green features in the overall concept.

Innovative Roofing

The roofing system uses tamarind wood shingles that collect solar energy and help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. This material serves practical needs, providing domestic hot water and a backup heating source during cooler periods. The careful selection of materials shows a dedication to energy efficiency that aligns with the local climate.

The microclimatic ti'kaz reflects practical design that focuses on ecological balance and cultural relevance, featuring vertical gardens that showcase the island's biodiversity and enhance the home’s sustainable narrative.

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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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