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Waterless Design Meets Fiberglass Efficiency in Compact Living

Author:
Yu Zhou
Waterless Design Meets Fiberglass Efficiency in Compact Living

Project in-detail

Built with high-capacity insulated fiberglass, this compact dwelling incorporates a waterless bathroom system and solar power, providing efficient off-grid living solutions for diverse environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
High-capacity insulated fiberglass provides superior thermal efficiency.
02
Integrates a waterless bathroom system for sustainable waste management.
03
Utilizes rooftop solar panels for independent energy generation.
04
Features a foldable bed, optimizing living space for multifunctional use.
05
Designed for adaptability in various environments, from urban to remote locations.

The Micro-House project presents a modern take on sustainable living, addressing the needs of contemporary lifestyles while placing a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility. Situated in various settings, such as urban rooftops and lakesides, the design promotes the idea of efficient living spaces that retain essential comforts. The compact layout features areas for cooking, bathing, and sleeping, all tailored to adapt to the user's needs.

Design and Functionality

The layout of the Micro-House highlights efficient use of space. Key areas include a kitchen and bathroom, alongside multifunctional spaces that support different daily activities. This arrangement effectively maximizes utility within a limited footprint. Each part of the design serves a specific function, offering flexibility to those who live within its walls.

Sustainability Features

A significant aspect of the Micro-House is its use of renewable energy sources. Roof solar panels are integrated into the design, capturing sunlight to provide power. This reduces reliance on traditional energy sources, promoting more sustainable living. The approach aligns with broader environmental goals, helping to lessen the carbon footprint associated with daily activities.

Water Management

The Micro-House includes a water filtration system that can process rainwater and water from natural sources like rivers and lakes. This system filters out 99% of contaminants, ensuring access to safe water. Additionally, the bathroom is designed to function without traditional water use, featuring a separating system and an incineration toilet for effective waste management. This combination enhances water conservation while addressing practical needs.

Material Specification

The structure is made from high-capacity insulated fiberglass shells that provide durability and thermal efficiency. This choice of material helps to keep indoor conditions comfortable, regardless of external weather. Fiberglass is lightweight, allowing easy relocation and placement of the Micro-House in various environments. To further enhance space efficiency, a foldable bed is included, allowing the living area to be reorganized based on the user's activities.

The Micro-House illustrates a thoughtful solution to modern living challenges. Its design balances sustainability and functionality, with each detail contributing to a practical and effective living environment.

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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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