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Basalt Cladding and Natural Ventilation in Compact Timber Shelters for Community Resilience

Author:
Umut Miran
Basalt Cladding and Natural Ventilation in Compact Timber Shelters for Community Resilience

Project in-detail

Incorporating basalt cladding and timber framing, these compact shelters offer durable, energy-efficient housing designed to foster community resilience in post-earthquake recovery environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes basalt stone cladding for enhanced seismic resistance.
02
Incorporates passive ventilation strategies for improved indoor climate control.
03
Central courtyard promotes social interaction and community cohesion.
04
Adapts to various occupant needs with flexible spatial layouts.
05
Integrates photovoltaic panels for energy self-sufficiency.
The Earthquake Microhouse project is a response to the immediate housing needs of communities affected by the devastating earthquakes in Turkey. This project focuses on providing durable, adaptable, and community-oriented shelter solutions to displaced individuals. The architectural design emphasizes functionality, resilience, and social connectivity, integrating traditional design elements with modern construction methodologies.

The microhouses are organized around a central courtyard, promoting communal living while ensuring privacy for individual units. This arrangement reflects inherent cultural values associated with traditional Turkish architectural practices. Each unit is designed to accommodate essential living functions, including sleeping quarters, cooking areas, and sanitary facilities, optimizing the use of compact space while maintaining a sense of comfort.

The project stands out through its innovative use of materiality. The selection includes wood horizontal batten, plywood sheathing, basalt stone cladding, and various insulation techniques designed for earthquake resistance. The incorporation of photovoltaic panels enhances sustainability, ensuring energy-efficient living. This approach addresses immediate shelter needs while caring for long-term environmental impacts.

The design also focuses on passive strategies for climate control. The orientation of the buildings, along with well-placed openings for cross-ventilation, allows for natural cooling and light, thereby reducing energy dependence and improving living conditions. Moreover, the landscape design integrates spaces for outdoor gatherings and memorial elements, further enhancing community cohesion and encouraging shared experiences among residents.

The microhouses incorporate flexibility in their layout, allowing adaptability based on evolving community needs. This is particularly crucial in post-disaster scenarios, where housing adaptability can significantly impact recovery efforts. The architecture not only shelters but also serves as a venue for remembrance and community activities, reflecting the resilience of the affected populace.

Readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for a deeper understanding of its architectural plans, sections, and design concepts. Engaging with these details will provide comprehensive insights into the innovative ideas and functional attributes that characterize the Earthquake Microhouse project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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