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Cement-Composite Arches and Earthy Hues Create Adaptable Living Spaces in Desert Context

Authors:
Michael Lord, Kelly Bergin
Cement-Composite Arches and Earthy Hues Create Adaptable Living Spaces in Desert Context

Project in-detail

Utilizing cement-composite arches and warm earthy tones, this modular design offers adaptive living spaces that respond effectively to desert environments and community needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cement-composite foam for lightweight structural components.
02
Incorporates standardized connection methods for easy reconfiguration.
03
Features extensive glass panels for optimized natural light penetration.
04
Employs a warm earthy color palette that blends with the desert landscape.
05
Designed for multiple layout configurations to meet diverse community needs.

The Arch System is a modular architectural project focused on sustainability and adaptability, set against arid landscapes. It embodies a design philosophy that prioritizes efficient use of materials while establishing a harmonious relationship with its surroundings. The project integrates functional living spaces that can be easily assembled and configured based on user needs.

Architecturally, the design employs traditional arch forms, reinterpreting them through modern materials to enhance both aesthetic value and performance. The overarching goal is to create spaces that foster a sense of community while respecting ecological constraints.

Unique Construction Techniques

The Arch System utilizes a lightweight cement-composite foam, chosen for its durability and low environmental impact. This material facilitates efficient transportation and assembly, significantly reducing construction waste and energy consumption. Wooden frameworks support the arch structures, providing both stability and the potential for flexibility in design arrangements. The project also includes extensive use of glass panels, which invite natural light into the interior and connect the occupants with the outdoor environment.

The modular nature of the design allows for variations in layout and function, accommodating different residential needs. This adaptability is a core feature, enabling units to serve various roles, from private homes to community gathering spaces. The use of standardized connection methods further enhances disassembly and reconfiguration, promoting sustainability in construction practices.

Engagement with Context

In addition to its innovative use of materials and modularity, the Arch System emphasizes its relationship with the natural landscape. The choice of earthy tones for the exterior serves to blend the structures with the environment, mitigating visual disruption and reinforcing the project's commitment to ecological design principles.

Different from conventional residential projects, the Arch System's design encourages a dialogue with the surrounding landscape, fostering an immersive experience for occupants. Its architectural fluidity allows it to adapt to various site conditions and user preferences, making it a relevant solution in contemporary architectural discourse.

Exploring Further Architectural Details

For those interested in a deeper understanding of the Arch System, a review of its architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas is encouraged. These detailed elements provide insights into the technical aspects of the project, showcasing how modular construction techniques and modern materials come together to create a functional architectural solution. It is an invitation to examine how this project contributes to the evolving conversation about sustainable architecture and living practices.

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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
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