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Water Management and Flower-Inspired Design in Sustainable Sleeping Pods

Author:
Anthony Levy
Water Management and Flower-Inspired Design in Sustainable Sleeping Pods

Project in-detail

With a design inspired by the anatomy of flowers and an innovative water management system, the sleeping pods offer a sustainable retreat harmonizing with the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the anatomy of flowers for its architectural form.
02
Removable panels allow adaptation to varying weather conditions.
03
Incorporates an efficient rainwater harvesting system for sustainability.
04
Designed to minimize visual impact on the surrounding landscape.
05
Arranged to facilitate meditation and restful experiences.

BLOOM sits in Vale de Moses, an area known for its rich Portuguese soil and abundant natural beauty. The design features sleeping pods that blend into the surrounding landscape while offering spaces for meditation and rest. The core idea is based on adaptability and the blooming processes found in nature, allowing the structure to interact with changing sunlight throughout the day.

Structure and Form

The sleeping pods take inspiration from the structure of flowers, including aspects like the stem, base, and reproductive parts. This organic form allows the architecture to fit harmoniously within the colorful landscape, reducing visual disturbance. The design carefully considers the unique characteristics of Vale de Moses, ensuring a connection to the natural environment.



Adaptability and User Interaction

A notable aspect of BLOOM is its use of removable panels that adjust to different weather conditions. These panels offer flexibility, allowing guests to change their environment according to personal preferences. This adaptability enhances comfort and encourages a stronger relationship between guests and their natural surroundings.



Functional Spaces and Environmental Responsibility

BLOOM is arranged into three main areas: a sleeping and meditation space, a storage section, and a washing area. This layout balances comfort with respect for nature. Additionally, the project includes a water management system that uses filtering gutters for sanitation and captures rainwater. The design ensures the safe drainage of gray water, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and environmental care.



Design Detail

The sloped design of the water area channels rainwater efficiently, integrating it with the building's functions. This detail improves water management while demonstrating thoughtful design. It emphasizes the careful consideration given to both the architecture and the natural environment, reinforcing the relationship between the two.

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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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