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Bamboo and Earthen Block Structure Enhancing Natural Ventilation in Educational Facility

Author:
Jason Foster Butz
Bamboo and Earthen Block Structure Enhancing Natural Ventilation in Educational Facility

Project in-detail

Utilizing bamboo and earthen blocks, the facility maximizes natural ventilation and integrates sustainability into its design, serving as a vital educational resource for the community in healthcare training.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed to integrate rainwater harvesting systems within its roof structure.
02
Utilizes locally sourced bamboo and earthen blocks for enhanced sustainability.
03
Features large openings for cross-ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling.
04
Classrooms are adaptable, allowing for diverse teaching methodologies.
05
Incorporates regional craftsmanship in architectural ornamentation, reflecting local culture.

## Architectural Design Report: OTI Institute of Medical Science & Technology

### Overview
Located in rural Kete Krachi, north of Accra, Ghana, the OTI Institute of Medical Science & Technology is an educational facility designed to provide advanced training and resources for healthcare professionals in West Africa. The project reflects a commitment to establishing a sustainable and integrated environment that aids in educational growth while enhancing local healthcare infrastructure. The facility's design is influenced by the geographic context and cultural heritage of the area, aiming to create a supportive setting for students and faculty alike.

### Site Layout & Organization
The campus is organized around a central axis, which facilitates accessibility and community interaction. The site plan features distinct programmatic areas, including education administration, student housing, a student clinic, faculty housing, and educational facilities, arranged in a manner that allows for future expansion. The main educational building acts as the focal point, complemented by surrounding green spaces designed to foster social cohesion among users.

### Architectural Elements & Sustainability
The design emphasizes a fluid structure inspired by local landscapes, incorporating natural ventilation and energy-efficient elements. The sweeping roof serves to provide shade while facilitating rainwater harvesting. Key materials include locally-sourced cement for structural integrity, bamboo for sustainable construction, earthen blocks that celebrate local craftsmanship, and metal sheets for longevity, all contributing to a resilient building ethos.

Environmental considerations are integral to the design, featuring natural ventilation strategies through meticulously placed openings and the integration of photovoltaic panels to harness solar energy. Water management is addressed through roof designs that capture rainwater, essential for the region.

The facility promotes an engaging learning atmosphere, with classrooms and laboratories designed for flexibility and varied educational approaches. Common areas, coupled with green courtyards, support both academic discourse and recreational activities, enhancing the educational experience for all occupants. The use of cultural motifs in the architectural finish not only reinforces local identity but also fosters a sense of belonging among the community members.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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