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Bamboo Reinforced Structure Merging Elliptical Form with Sustainable Living Solutions

Author:
Lipin Kannimolath
Bamboo Reinforced Structure Merging Elliptical Form with Sustainable Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Constructed using bamboo reinforced concrete and designed with a distinctive elliptical shape, this micro home integrates sustainable materials and innovative natural lighting solutions to create a functional living space for artists within an eco-friendly community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes bamboo reinforced concrete for enhanced structural sustainability.
02
Incorporates an elliptical shape to minimize environmental impact on existing trees.
03
Design includes transparent solar cells integrated into skylights for energy efficiency.
04
Features multifunctional interior spaces adaptable for various artistic activities.
05
Rainwater harvesting system promotes responsible water management practices.

## Project Overview
The Minimal Foot is a micro home designed for an eco-friendly artist colony, situated within a natural landscape. The intent of the design is to create living spaces that promote sustainability while facilitating artistic inspiration and community interaction. The project employs an elliptical footprint to integrate into the site with minimal disturbance to the existing flora, aiming to preserve the ecological integrity of the area.

## Spatial Strategy and Design Philosophy
The design philosophy prioritizes an adaptive relationship between architecture and the environment, guided by principles of ecological preservation. The elliptical form responds to the contours of the landscape and surrounding vegetation, allowing the structure to coexist with mature trees without requiring their removal. This approach not only minimizes site disturbance but also promotes environmental stewardship, showcasing a commitment to sustainable living practices.

## Innovative Materials
The construction of the Minimal Foot utilizes several sustainable materials that further advocate for eco-conscious building methods. Bamboo Reinforced Concrete (BRC) provides structural strength while minimizing the carbon footprint, and mud plaster adds an acoustic quality along with a natural aesthetic. Transparent solar cells are strategically integrated into skylights to optimize energy efficiency and illumination, while slimline water tanks are designed to facilitate rainwater collection and greywater recycling. Collectively, these materials enhance both the sustainability and aesthetic appeal of the home, reinforcing its connection to nature.

## Unique Features
The design includes expansive circular windows and a central skylight that augment natural lighting and provide expansive views of the landscape, bolstering residents' connection to the surrounding environment. The interior layout is intentionally multifunctional, featuring adaptable workspaces that cater to the needs of artists, alongside convertible furniture and outdoor meditation areas. The incorporation of community insights during the design process further ensures that the project aligns with local cultural and environmental values, fostering a sense of cohesion and ownership among future residents.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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