Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Bioclimatic Shelter Crafted from Adobe and Kingspan Panels for Semi-Arid Living

Authors:
Bruna Daldegan Martiniano Ferreira , João Pedro Almeida Lima, Veronica Horta Christofaro
Bioclimatic Shelter Crafted from Adobe and Kingspan Panels for Semi-Arid Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced adobe and energy-efficient Kingspan panels, this modular housing solution addresses the unique challenges of semi-arid living while fostering community connections through adaptable spatial arrangements.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced adobe to enhance thermal performance.
02
Incorporates Kingspan panels for energy efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
03
Features modular design for flexible family configurations and communal spaces.
04
Includes integrated rainwater harvesting systems to address local water scarcity.
05
Emphasizes cross-ventilation through strategic opening placements for natural cooling.

### Overview
The Mandacaru project responds to the socio-climatic challenges present in Brazil's semi-arid region, known as the "sertão." Emphasizing a bioclimatic design, the project takes into account the local environmental conditions to promote resilience and sustainability. Named after the Mandacaru cactus, which provides food and shade to local communities, the design features minimal housing units capable of adapting to diverse living conditions, thereby enabling individual customization and fostering community cohesion.

### Modular Adaptability
The design incorporates flexible housing modules that can be arranged in various configurations to suit the specific needs of residents. A main module can be subdivided into functional and free submodules, connected by a communal porch that encourages social interaction. This adaptability not only addresses personal preferences but also supports common living practices, underscoring the importance of a cohesive community structure.

### Sustainable Material Choices
A focus on durable, environmentally harmonious materials characterizes the construction approach. Key elements include adobe bricks for thermal inertia and minimal heat transfer, lightweight roofing with a low carbon footprint, and a concrete base for structural integrity. Additionally, wood is used for its flexibility and aesthetic qualities, while glass elements ensure natural light penetration. The inclusion of coarse and fine gravel aids in effective drainage and water management.

### Bioclimatic Features
The architecture employs strategies to optimize natural resources, such as roof overhangs that provide shade and minimize direct sunlight exposure. Rainwater storage systems enhance groundwater recharge, while green roofs contribute to insulation and biodiversity. The strategic orientation and positioning of openings facilitate cross-ventilation, maximizing comfort while reducing reliance on mechanical cooling.

### Community Integration
Building upon the concept of modularity, the Mandacaru project envisions the establishment of interconnected village units. This design framework promotes interaction among families and encourages the development of community infrastructure, including greenhouses, markets, and communal gardens, ultimately supporting local economic growth and resource sharing.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy