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Vertical Living with Perforated Panels and Hydroponic Integration in a Sustainable Home

Author:
Elie Mouawad El Hajal
Vertical Living with Perforated Panels and Hydroponic Integration in a Sustainable Home

Project in-detail

Integrating hydroponic systems and perforated aluminum panels, this residence utilizes modular construction methods and sustainable materials to create a flexible living space that adapts to modern family needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates hydroponic systems within the living space for sustainable food production.
02
Utilizes perforated aluminum panels for natural ventilation and light control.
03
Employs modular construction techniques for adaptability and expansion flexibility.
04
Incorporates a two-story lobby that enhances connectivity between various zones.
05
Features a unique rainwater harvesting system to optimize water usage.

### Overview and Concept

Located within a modern context, the House of the Future employs a modular construction system that facilitates customization and expansion tailored to diverse family needs. The design integrates an application that allows users to personalize their living spaces while adhering to defined structural parameters, reflecting a commitment to adaptive functionality.

### Architectural Layout

The site planning emphasizes flexibility, with distinct zones for public and private access designed to promote fluid movement throughout the villa. Dedicated areas for family entertainment, guest services, and private retreats are meticulously arranged to enhance usability. The vertical and horizontal module interplay not only enhances adaptability but also provides a diverse range of configurations that support various privacy levels and interactions with the outdoor environment. Key features include a landscaped backyard, complete with a swimming pool, creating a space for recreation and a connection to nature.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection is essential to the villa's architectural identity. Concrete, glass, framed panels, wood, and metal are employed to create a robust yet inviting structure. Concrete provides the necessary structural support, while glass maximizes natural light. Sustainability is a guiding principle of the design, featuring a rainwater management system, a hydroponic greenhouse for food production, and photovoltaic cells to harness solar energy, reinforcing the project’s commitment to eco-friendly living.

### Construction Methodology

Utilizing prefabricated modules crafted off-site, construction is streamlined to reduce time and waste, aligning with contemporary sustainable practices. The estimated cost for the project comprises a module base cost of $20,000 AUD, with additional features bringing the total estimated cost to $38,000 AUD.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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