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Asymmetrical Roof Structure Enhances Community Space for the Mentawai Tribe

Authors:
Bryan Zachrie, Orry Junior, Stephanus christo Probojati
Asymmetrical Roof Structure Enhances Community Space for the Mentawai Tribe

Project in-detail

An asymmetrical roof structure defines a community space that fosters cultural connection and sustainability for the Mentawai tribe while incorporating eco-conscious practices and traditional living methods.
5 key facts about this project
01
Asymmetrical roof design reflects cultural evolution.
02
Utilizes local wood resources to minimize carbon footprint.
03
Incorporates a circular water system for sustainable practices.
04
Amphitheater space enhances communal gatherings and rituals.
05
Biodegradable soap used to recycle greywater for irrigation.

The project focused on the Mentawai tribe in the Mentawai Islands of West Sumatra, Indonesia, combines traditional cultural elements with modern design. It aims to create a living space that meets the needs of the younger generation while addressing the challenges posed by modernization. The design reconsiders the traditional Uma, promoting an idea of coexistence between architecture and nature while fostering community interaction.

Design Concept

The design introduces a contemporary take on the Uma, moving away from the traditional symmetrical roof to an asymmetrical form. This change helps the new dwelling stand apart from older models and reflects the values of the present day. By doing so, it honors the tribe’s heritage while supporting modern living needs.

Spatial Organization

The arrangement of spaces balances private areas for daily life with communal spaces for social interaction. Two residents can live comfortably alongside their guests, while special areas for community rituals and ceremonies are also included. A proposed amphitheater serves as a venue for gatherings, reinforcing the community's social cohesion. This layout maintains functionality without losing cultural importance.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a core aspect of the design. A circular water system utilizes rainwater as the primary source, with well water available when needed. The use of biodegradable soap made from local plants enables greywater recycling for irrigation. These practices reduce water waste and align with the sustainable living approach of the Mentawai people.

Energy Strategy

The energy plan includes photovoltaic panels and a radiant floor cooling system. The solar panels generate electricity to meet the dwelling's needs, promoting energy independence. Passive cooling is achieved through roof ventilation, which reduces the need for mechanical cooling. This approach creates a more comfortable indoor climate while minimizing energy consumption.

The design features an asymmetrical roof that signifies a shift toward a new period for the Mentawai tribe, maintaining a connection to their cultural identity while embracing the present.

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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

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