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Water-Efficient Residence Featuring Sustainable Microfiber Panels and Timber Construction

Authors:
Weihao Yin, Yue Wu, Solene Cais Biche
Water-Efficient Residence Featuring Sustainable Microfiber Panels and Timber Construction

Project in-detail

Incorporating a rainwater harvesting system and microfibre panels, this residence redefines sustainability by utilizing timber construction to create a self-sufficient living environment in a drought-prone region.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system integrated within the building's facade.
02
Utilizes microfibre panels for enhanced insulation and moisture resistance.
03
Features a thermally efficient bent A-frame design that maximizes natural ventilation.
04
Employs locally sourced timber to minimize environmental impact and ensure durability.
05
Includes an hydroponic garden for in-house food cultivation and sustainability.

### Overview

Sencio, located in the village of Don Domingo, Sierra de Segura, Spain, addresses the pressing issue of water scarcity through innovative architectural solutions grounded in sustainability. The design integrates eco-friendly practices with modern aesthetics, aiming to create a habitat that not only meets the challenges of its environment but also enhances the living experience of its occupants.

### Architectural Form and Functionality

The structure exhibits an angular, organic form, drawing inspiration from the characteristics of succulent plants, particularly the Senecio, known for its moisture retention capabilities. The facade combines timber and other sustainable materials, providing both thermal efficiency and acoustic performance essential for energy conservation. Rainwater harvesting features prominently in the design, with a roof equipped with the Dr-Disenyo Cassette System that transforms a structural element into a functional water collection system.

### Spatial and User-Centric Design

The project incorporates various spatial zones tailored to distinct activities, promoting multifunctionality throughout the living environment. An open-plan layout facilitates natural light and encourages fluid transitions between living, working, and recreational areas. Interior features include adaptable furniture and efficient storage solutions, such as compartments integrated beneath beds, optimizing the use of vertical space while prioritizing user comfort and versatility. Additional elements, such as a hydroponic system adjacent to the kitchen, further enhance self-sufficiency and resilience within the home.

Materials selected for the construction include timber for structural integrity, microfiber panels for insulation, polymeric membranes for moisture protection, and photovoltaic panels for solar energy capture. These elements work cohesively to create effective and appealing spaces that resonate with the surrounding landscape.

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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
competition now

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