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Bamboo Roofing and Stabilized Earth Blocks in a Community-Centric Learning Space

Author:
Thinina Mohamed Oussaid
Bamboo Roofing and Stabilized Earth Blocks in a Community-Centric Learning Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with bamboo roofing and stabilized earth blocks, the architectural initiative promotes sustainability and community engagement while serving as an educational hub for local students.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes bamboo as a primary roofing material for enhanced sustainability.
02
Incorporates locally sourced stabilized earth blocks to minimize environmental impact.
03
Features a central courtyard designed to foster community interaction and collaboration.
04
Employs passive cooling strategies to maximize natural ventilation throughout the spaces.
05
Integrates water management systems for effective rainwater harvesting.
The HARVEST project is an architectural initiative designed for the Casamance region of Senegal. This project is centered around educational and community spaces with an emphasis on sustainability, cultural integration, and environmental responsiveness. It incorporates local materials and traditional building techniques, ensuring that the design not only meets functional requirements but also resonates with the community it serves.

Sustainable Material Use
A key characteristic of the HARVEST project is its use of sustainable materials that are sourced locally. The primary building materials include bamboo, stabilized compressed earth blocks (CEB), concrete, wood, and earthen materials. Bamboo, known for its strength and lightweight properties, is utilized for both structural elements and roofing. CEB, made from locally sourced laterite soil, contributes to the project's thermal comfort while minimizing environmental impact. The incorporation of indigenous wood for window frames and furniture further strengthens local craftsmanship, enhancing the architectural identity of the space.

Community-Centric Design
The architectural layout of the HARVEST project is designed around a central courtyard that serves as a communal gathering space. This arrangement facilitates airflow and interaction, creating an inviting atmosphere for students and community members. Classrooms, counseling offices, and multipurpose areas are integrated into the design, allowing for diverse educational functionalities. The focus on communal spaces underscores the project's goal of fostering social unity and collaboration, making it a significant addition to the local educational infrastructure.

Adaptability and Climate Responsiveness
An essential aspect of the architectural design is its adaptability to local climate conditions. The building orientation and architectural form leverage natural ventilation and light, mitigating the need for artificial heating and cooling. This climate-responsive approach ensures a comfortable indoor environment while reducing energy consumption. Water management strategies, such as rainwater harvesting, are incorporated into the design, promoting sustainable resource use and enhancing the resilience of the building.

For a more detailed understanding of the HARVEST project, including architectural plans, sections, and design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the presentation. Insights into the architectural designs and innovative ideas that shaped this project will provide a comprehensive overview of its significance within the context of sustainable architecture in Senegal.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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