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Wooden Walls and Rainwater Systems in a Sustainable Residential Design

Authors:
Oskar Pstrongowski, Izabela Jelińska, Kacper Spólnik
Wooden Walls and Rainwater Systems in a Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Incorporating wooden walls and an underground rainwater collection system, the design prioritizes sustainability while creating a functional living space for modern residential needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates an underground rainwater collection system for efficient water management.
02
Utilizes wooden wall layers to enhance thermal performance and aesthetics.
03
Features solar panels designed for optimal energy capture on the roof.
04
Emphasizes vertical levels to define distinct functional areas within the home.
05
Prioritizes sustainable living with a focus on eco-friendly materials and energy sources.

The design combines sustainability with practical living, situated within a contemporary residential environment. The focus is on maximizing functionality through the creative use of vertical levels. This approach not only enhances the layout but also supports environmental initiatives, including rainwater collection and solar energy usage, reflecting a commitment to ecological awareness.

Vertical Levels
The project makes effective use of verticality, creating a sense of movement and flow in the interior space. By introducing varying heights, different functional areas are established. This not only improves usability but also contributes to an open and engaging atmosphere, ensuring that every space serves a purpose in the day-to-day life of its inhabitants.

Rainwater Management
An important aspect of the design is the rainwater management system. The roof's structure is carefully crafted to collect rainwater and direct it into an underground tank. This method helps reduce reliance on external water sources, highlighting the project's dedication to conservation. By integrating this feature, the design promotes responsible water usage, suitable for a modern lifestyle.

Solar Energy Integration
Solar panels are incorporated to enhance energy efficiency throughout the home. The roof is tailored to accommodate these panels effectively, allowing the collection of renewable energy. This aspect of the design not only addresses the energy needs of the family but also supports larger sustainability goals within the community.

Materials and Aesthetic Considerations
Wooden wall layers are utilized to add warmth and improve thermal regulation. This choice of material aligns with the project’s sustainability objectives by fostering a natural environment inside the home while complementing the architectural style. The wood enhances the connection with nature and creates a calming atmosphere.

The design culminates in a roof that is both functional and visually appealing, capturing rainwater while maximizing sunlight for energy use.

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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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