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Biodegradable Plastic Wraps and Dirt Brick Construction in a Forested Residential Space

Authors:
Bogdan Bondarenko, Oleksandr Fil, Kostiantyn Bondarenko, Olena Kashpur
Biodegradable Plastic Wraps and Dirt Brick Construction in a Forested Residential Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing dirt bricks and eco-friendly biodegradable plastic wrap, the design prioritizes environmental synergy while creating a sustainable residential space within a forested environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dirt bricks composed of 75% soil provide high thermal insulation.
02
Oxo-biodegradable plastic wrap minimizes environmental impact.
03
Clay flooring enhances humidity control and thermal mass.
04
Solar panels integrated into the bent A-frame maximize energy efficiency.
05
Design fosters community gardening and ecological engagement.

### Project Overview
"A Fly in Amber" is located within a forested landscape and addresses sustainable living through a conceptual framework inspired by natural forms. The design metaphor of a fly trapped in amber symbolizes themes of preservation, resilience, and cyclical life processes, aiming to foster a harmonious relationship between the architecture and its natural surroundings. The structure emphasizes the use of eco-friendly materials and construction practices to minimize environmental impact.

### Material and Construction Strategy
The project utilizes a range of sustainable materials, notably the incorporation of dirt bricks made from 75% dirt, 15% peat, and 10% organic binder, enhancing insulation and ecological integrity. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) provide both thermal efficiency and structural integrity, facilitating reduced energy consumption. Additionally, the external wrap is made from oxo-biodegradable plastic, ensuring timely decomposition in comparison to traditional plastics. Interior clay floors contribute to thermal mass and humidity regulation, while wood connections enhance both structural stability and aesthetic warmth.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality
The architectural form is inspired by traditional greenhouse designs, optimizing natural light and climate control through strategically engineered roofs that promote ventilation and illumination. Indoor spaces are carefully arranged to prioritize usability, featuring essential facilities such as a hearth, cupboard, and WC, which are integrated within the overall design. Solar panels are included to further emphasize renewable energy use, aligning with the overarching goals of sustainability. The project promotes user engagement with the landscape, encouraging sustainable practices such as gardening, ultimately fostering a sense of community and ecological awareness.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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