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Adobe Facade With Arched Windows Integrating Wood Trusses For Community Spaces

Author:
Edna Elizabeth Conde Lara
Adobe Facade With Arched Windows Integrating Wood Trusses For Community Spaces

Project in-detail

With a facade of adobe and arched windows that merge traditional aesthetics with modern functionality, the design creates communal spaces that foster interaction while effectively responding to the challenges of a desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local adobe for thermal mass to enhance energy efficiency.
02
Features arched windows to optimize natural light and airflow.
03
Incorporates a central courtyard for community gathering and interaction.
04
Wood trusses provide structural integrity while showcasing craftsmanship.
05
Integrates sustainable materials tailored for the local desert climate.
The architectural project encompasses a community-oriented structure designed to function effectively within a desert environment. It addresses various needs through a carefully considered layout that includes both public and private spaces. The design focuses on sustainability and cultural integration, allowing for community interaction while also providing private areas for individual retreats.

The project utilizes a range of materials that enhance the thermal efficiency and aesthetic quality of the structure. Clay coating, adobe, travertine ceramic, and wood have been chosen for their local availability and ability to respond to the climatic conditions. This materiality not only reflects the region's historical architecture but also ensures sustainable practices are upheld throughout the construction process.

Unique Design Approaches and Spatial Organization

What differentiates this project from many similar developments is its emphasis on communal spaces. The design features a central courtyard that acts as the heart of the building, promoting social interaction and community engagement. These spaces are arranged to encourage movement and connection among users, making the orientation intuitive and inviting. The use of arched doorways and windows maximizes natural light while allowing for effective airflow, making the architecture responsive to the environment.

Incorporating traditional architectural elements, such as wooden trusses and intricate window designs, provides a visual connection to the region’s cultural heritage. These elements do not merely serve aesthetic purposes; they are functional, allowing for enhanced ventilation and increased comfort levels within the building.

Materiality and Functionality

The choice of materials is central to the project's architectural identity. The use of adobe provides excellent thermal mass, regulating indoor temperatures throughout the day. Travertine ceramic flooring is durable and easy to maintain, making it suitable for high-traffic communal areas. Wood, employed in column and beam structures, introduces warmth and a tactile quality to the spaces while offering structural reliability.

Each material selected serves a dual purpose: aesthetic appeal and performance. This pragmatic approach ensures that the building not only stands out visually but is also equipped to handle the practical challenges posed by a desert climate. The integration of rock wool insulation further solidifies the building's efficiency, reducing energy consumption.

Exploring Architectural Elements

The architectural plans detail a holistic approach to design, where space, function, and sustainability intersect. The architectural sections reveal how the building interacts with its surroundings and the careful consideration given to orientation and landscape design. Various architectural ideas are presented throughout the design, emphasizing the need for communal living while remaining respectful of individual privacy.

For those interested in gaining further insights into this project, it is encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs. Each element contributes to an understanding of how this project integrates with its environment and serves the community effectively.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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