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Bamboo Structures With Natural Ventilation in Sustainable Living Huts

Author:
Marco franz Vaccara
Bamboo Structures With Natural Ventilation in Sustainable Living Huts

Project in-detail

Constructed from bamboo and equipped with a rainwater collection system, the huts provide a sustainable living solution that prioritizes natural ventilation and connectivity to the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from bamboo for sustainability and local availability.
02
Features a rainwater collection system for independent water supply.
03
Integrates agricultural netting to enhance ventilation while deterring insects.
04
Roof overhangs designed for effective sun shading and weather protection.
05
Layouts maximize airflow and natural light, promoting occupant comfort.

Pepper Huts is located within a pepper plantation, designed to respond to the specific needs of its tropical environment. The purpose of the huts is to offer a comfortable living space while dealing with the challenges posed by rain and sun. The design concept is centered on large roofs that shield the interiors, while lightweight structures allow for an effective connection with the outdoor surroundings. The result is a functional space that promotes natural ventilation and a sense of wellbeing.

Design Orientation and Layout

The layout prioritizes a thoughtful arrangement of rooms, with bedrooms and bathrooms placed on the north side to maximize airflow and light. This careful orientation creates a feeling of openness between indoor and outdoor areas, making it easy for residents to enjoy the natural environment. Open floor plans and lightweight partitions enhance comfort, balancing communal spaces with private areas.

Material Usage

The construction relies on bamboo poles and steel grating, both known for their strength and sustainability. Bamboo is particularly important, representing a commitment to using renewable resources. Its lightweight nature contributes to the overall design while offering structural support. Steel grating complements the bamboo framework, adding durability and maintaining the balance needed for the overall roof structure.

Sustainability Measures

Sustainability is a key feature of the design. Solar panels are installed for energy needs, providing residents with independence while reducing reliance on external power sources. A rainwater collection system is included to ensure a reliable supply of water for bathrooms. These elements make the design not only practical but also environmentally friendly, aligning it with modern standards of sustainability.

Interior and Exterior Integration

Pepper Huts promotes a close relationship between interior spaces and the natural environment. The design includes functional areas intended for social interactions as well as private moments. Large roof overhangs provide shade and comfort, while agricultural netting acts as protection against insects. This thoughtful integration enhances the living experience, allowing residents to feel connected to their surroundings while enjoying a sense of security in their living spaces.

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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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