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3D Printed Earth Waste Structures with Natural Ventilation in a Cappadocian Landscape

3D Printed Earth Waste Structures with Natural Ventilation in a Cappadocian Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed using 3D printed earth waste and incorporating natural ventilation techniques, these structures seamlessly blend into the Cappadocian landscape while providing sustainable housing solutions for the community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using repurposed earth waste through 3D printing technology.
02
Incorporates a natural ventilation system utilizing chimney effects for climate control.
03
Features modular layouts promoting flexible living and communal interaction.
04
Design reflects the unique geological formations found in the Cappadocia region.
05
Integrates solar energy solutions and rainwater harvesting for sustainability.

### Project Overview

Cappadocia Retreats is an architectural initiative situated in Central Anatolia, Turkey, focusing on the sustainable reconstruction of dwellings in desert environments. The design integrates traditional architectural principles with modern technologies to address environmental and social needs in arid areas. Emphasizing energy efficiency and environmental adaptability, the project seeks visual harmony with the unique geological landscape of Cappadocia.

### Sustainable Material Practices

The project employs innovative methods for sourcing materials, utilizing excavated earth waste from existing construction sites for the 3D printing of building components. This approach minimizes environmental impact and promotes the use of sustainable materials. Key structural elements include concrete for durability, aluminum framing for thermal insulation, and specialized insulation materials such as rice husks. Additionally, the design incorporates glass sections to maximize daylight while maintaining indoor climate control.

### Spatial and Community Design

Architecturally, the structure features conical forms that resonate with the region's natural rock formations, facilitating airflow and creating varied light patterns throughout the day. Interior layouts promote communal living with open-plan kitchens and living spaces that encourage social interaction, while also providing private areas for residents. Communal gathering spaces are strategically integrated to foster social connectivity, enhancing the sense of community within the retreat.

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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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