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Bamboo Framework and Natural Ventilation in Eco-Friendly Off-Grid Housing

Author:
Juan Sebastian Molina Abdo
Bamboo Framework and Natural Ventilation in Eco-Friendly Off-Grid Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing bamboo framework and a multi-layered water filtration system, this off-grid housing solution integrates natural ventilation to provide a sustainable living space within the Amazon ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular bamboo framework for eco-friendly construction.
02
Incorporates a multi-layered water filtration system using locally sourced materials.
03
Features sliding panels that enable flexible spatial organization and privacy control.
04
Employs natural ventilation strategies that enhance indoor air quality.
05
Integrates renewable energy solutions, including solar panels for self-sufficiency.

## Overview and Concept

"Inhabiting the Outdoors" is situated in the Amazon rainforest and addresses the need for off-grid housing solutions tailored for environmentally conscious professionals. The design not only caters to individual families but also proposes a replicable model intended to tackle broader housing challenges in tropical regions, informed by demographic data from the United Nations regarding similar environments, particularly in Ecuador.

The intention behind this design is to merge indoor and outdoor spaces, emphasizing the advantages of the natural environment while promoting social interactions. This approach aims to counteract the adverse effects of urbanization and ecological degradation, fostering a living experience that connects inhabitants with their surroundings.

## Spatial Configuration and Material Integration

### Boundary and Utility Dynamics
The architectural design implements a central core that organizes utilities and amenities, facilitating flexible living spaces that adapt to various lifestyle needs. The use of permeable materials for enclosures supports natural ventilation and community engagement, ultimately creating a layout that encourages a harmonious relationship with nature.

The incorporation of a multi-layered water filtration system utilizes locally sourced materials, emphasizing sustainable water management. Additionally, renewable energy solutions, including solar power generation, reflect a commitment to energy independence.

### Sustainable Material Selection
A primary focus on sustainable materials underscores the design's ecological considerations. Renewable wood sourced from local forests, bamboo panels for structural strength, and stainless steel components enhance durability while minimizing environmental impact. Reed and interwoven mesh panels provide both privacy and airflow control, balancing openness and seclusion.

## Adaptability and User-Centric Innovations

### Flexible Living Environments
Interior design innovations prioritize versatility, featuring adaptable furniture and integrated storage solutions. This flexibility supports a range of activities, from communal gatherings to solitary workspaces, aligning with contemporary living demands.

The implementation of sliding panel structures enhances privacy control, allowing users to modify their environments in response to their needs. This dynamic organization enriches the living experience while maintaining a strong connection to the external landscape.

### Integration with the Natural Environment
Large openings are designed to foster interaction between indoor spaces and the natural surroundings, facilitating a continuous transition that responds to tropical climate conditions. This strategic articulation not only enhances comfort but also promotes outdoor social engagement, reflecting the project's overarching ethos of harmony with the environment.

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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

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