Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Wood Columns and Rainwater Harvesting in a Community Hub for Cultural Exchange

Authors:
Yi heng Lim, Kuan yun Leng
Wood Columns and Rainwater Harvesting in a Community Hub for Cultural Exchange

Project in-detail

Incorporating wood columns and a rainwater harvesting system, the community hub serves as a dynamic space for cultural exchange and local engagement in Proença-a-Vel.
5 key facts about this project
01
Community hub designed for cultural exchange during local festivals.
02
Adaptable workshop spaces for performances and local markets.
03
Wood columns provide structural support while minimizing sunlight exposure.
04
Public patio serves as an amphitheater for community gatherings.
05
Rainwater harvesting system enhances sustainability features.

The Film is located in Proença-a-Vel, an area known for its lively cultural festivals. The design focuses on creating a space that encourages community interaction and cultural activities. Inspired by the idea that photography captures the inner essence of people, the building serves as a platform for residents to engage with each other and their surroundings.

Community Spaces

The layout includes a multipurpose hall, designed to facilitate easy movement for visitors. This space can be used for various events, serving as both a gathering area and a venue for cultural exhibitions during the festival. Nearby workshop areas support traditional performances and food-related activities, promoting a deeper connection to the community’s cultural heritage.

Public Interaction

A public patio is part of the design and is meant to foster social interactions among residents. The space also has the potential to function as an amphitheater, accommodating larger gatherings and outdoor performances. This integration of public areas positions the building as a central gathering point, encouraging conversations and connections.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability plays a significant role in the design, highlighted by the use of composting toilets that reduce water usage. A rainwater harvesting system is also included, enhancing the building's efficiency in resource management. The choice of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability. Wood columns are used to manage sunlight while providing necessary privacy for users.

Enhancing Natural Light

The design incorporates a shading device aimed at maximizing natural light within the space. This element balances the need for daylight with user comfort. Bifold windows allow for cross-ventilation and provide protection from outdoor elements, making the environment comfortable for those inside.

The roof deck serves as both an observation area and a rainwater collection feature. By providing an additional usable space, it enhances the building’s overall functionality. The roof connects the architecture with the surrounding landscape, inviting nature into everyday community life.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy