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Bamboo-Framed Living with Earthbag Walls and Recycled Copper Detailing

Author:
Alex O'brien
Bamboo-Framed Living with Earthbag Walls and Recycled Copper Detailing
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Constructed with earthbag walls and detailed with recycled copper, this compact home integrates bamboo framing and a bio-digester system to create a sustainable living environment for a couple.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with 87% natural and recycled materials, emphasizing environmental responsibility.
02
Features a green cell terrace for grey water processing and CO₂ capture.
03
Integrates a bio-digester for converting organic waste into compost and methane.
04
Utilizes earthbag technology for thermal mass, enhancing energy efficiency.
05
Includes a mezzanine bedroom design, maximizing vertical space.

The Micro-dome-ship is located in West Cork, Republic of Ireland, and represents a modern approach to sustainable living. Designed for a couple, this compact home combines elements from different building methods while following a permaculture approach. The aim is to create a space that respects the environment and reduces waste.

Architectural Concept

The design makes effective use of the internal ground floor area of 24.28 m², creating a functional living space despite its small size. It includes separate zones for different activities: a mezzanine bedroom in a half-moon shape, a living area with a thermal mass bench for chilly evenings, and a kitchen that operates on gas sourced from a bio-digester. This careful organization of space ensures comfort while maximizing usability.

Material Usage

A significant focus of the project is its sustainable material choices, with 87% of the structure composed of natural and recycled components. The external walls feature earthbag construction, which serves to provide thermal mass and enhance energy efficiency. Cladding made from recycled copper, lime, and rock contributes to the building's longevity while aligning with environmental goals. Inside, the wall that hides the WC uses recycled bottles held together with lime mortar, reflecting a thoughtful approach to reducing waste.

Innovative Systems

The design includes a bio-digester tucked away in a utility closet. This device processes organic waste, turning it into compost and methane that can fuel the kitchen. This feature emphasizes the home’s self-sufficiency. The green cell terrace supports this system by managing grey water and carbon dioxide, resulting in an integrated design that focuses on sustainability.

Passive Design Elements

Effective temperature regulation is a key aspect of the Micro-dome-ship, thanks to its passive heating and cooling strategies. The ground floor is divided into two zones, with the green cell terrace acting as a heat pump. In winter, it captures warmth from the low sun, while in summer, it vents excess heat. This attention to climate considerations enhances the comfort of the living environment.

The project also incorporates bamboo as the primary wood material, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability by sourcing materials close to home. It is a choice that aligns with the overarching goal of creating an environmentally responsible living space.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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