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3D Printed Earth And Cross-Laminated Timber Form Sustainable Community Living

Authors:
Daniel Alejandro Muñoz Ramírez, Patricio Gonzalo Gálvez Véliz, Alberto Augusto Rivera Soto
3D Printed Earth And Cross-Laminated Timber Form Sustainable Community Living

Project in-detail

Built from 3D printed earth and cross-laminated timber, the design exemplifies sustainable living through modular adaptability and energy efficiency, serving as a cohesive community residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printed earth technology for structural elements.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber for enhanced thermal performance.
03
Features a greywater recycling system for eco-friendly water management.
04
Design allows for modular adjustments to accommodate varying family needs.
05
Integrates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetics.

## Analytical Report on the Plug-in Terra House Project

### Overview

Located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the Plug-in Terra House introduces a modular design that addresses ecological, social, and economic sustainability within a rapidly developing urban environment. This project aims to integrate traditional aspects of UAE culture with contemporary living requirements, creating a residential unit that adapts to the needs of its occupants while being mindful of the surrounding ecosystem.

### Structural Strategy and Material Innovation

The structural design employs advanced 3D printing technologies alongside local, sustainable materials. Notable components include 3D printed earth sourced from the immediate environment, which reduces transportation emissions and enhances harmony with local geology. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) serves as a lightweight yet robust option that promotes fire safety and thermal efficiency. The incorporation of high-efficiency solar panels on the roof maximizes energy generation, further lessening reliance on non-renewable resources. Coupled with water-resistant foundations designed to withstand Dubai's climate, the project ensures long-term durability and performance.

### Sustainability and Community Interaction

Sustainability is a central theme, supported by the design’s renewable energy strategies and efficient water management systems. Photovoltaic panels generate clean energy for household operations, while a greywater recycling system enables the reuse of water for gardening, illustrating a commitment to circular water practices. The Plug-in Terra House concept also fosters community interaction by enabling energy and water sharing among neighboring units, thus promoting collective resilience and resource efficiency. Modular construction facilitates adaptability to accommodate shifting family dynamics and environmental conditions, thereby ensuring the enduring relevance of the dwelling in a modern context.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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