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Circular Micro-Housing Constructed with Quaducon Panels and Natural Wood Elements for Community Living

Authors:
Natalia Camila Ramirez Arango, Claudia Tatiana Rojas Molina, Laura Juliette Carvajal Guacaneme
Circular Micro-Housing Constructed with Quaducon Panels and Natural Wood Elements for Community Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with Quaducon panels and local materials, the circular micro-housing design facilitates communal living for the Kamentza community in the Sibundoy Valley.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed in a circular layout to enhance community interaction and equality among residents.
02
Utilizes Quaducon panels for thermal efficiency and durability in varying climates.
03
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system to promote self-sufficiency and sustainability.
04
Features flexible micro-housing units that allow for various personal and communal functions.
05
Emphasizes local craftsmanship through the use of natural wood materials sourced from the region.
The "Thought House" project is a residential architectural development located in the Sibundoy Valley, Colombia. It aims to address the housing needs of the indigenous Kamentza community by integrating traditional cultural practices with contemporary design principles. The project features a unique circular arrangement of micro-housing units centered around a communal space, promoting social interaction and community cohesion.

The design embodies the principles of self-sufficiency and environmental sustainability, enhancing the residents’ quality of life while respecting local heritage. It provides essential residential functions, including cooking, dining, sleeping, and workspace areas, all within a communal framework that fosters collaboration among community members.

Unique Design Approaches

One key aspect of the "Thought House" is its circular layout. This design represents unity and equality, allowing all housing units to face inward towards a central communal area. This configuration encourages a sense of belonging and provides a platform for cultural gatherings and community events. The integration of common spaces fosters social bonds and shared values among residents, creating a vibrant community atmosphere.

Additionally, the project employs sustainable materials and construction techniques, emphasizing local craftsmanship and ecological considerations. Materials such as Quaducon™ Insulated Roof Panels and natural wood structures are utilized for their thermal efficiency and aesthetic appeal. The use of rainwater harvesting systems further enhances the project's sustainability, promoting responsible resource management.

Architectural Details and Functionality

The architectural elements of the "Thought House" are purposeful and thoughtfully designed to meet the community's specific needs. Micro-homes feature flexible spatial configurations, allowing inhabitants to adapt spaces for various functions, such as informal gatherings or private reflection. The individual units maintain an appropriate scale that respects the human experience while offering essential amenities.

Incorporating acoustic ceiling tiles and insulated wall panels improves privacy and comfort, addressing the dynamics of communal living. The overall design prioritizes harmony with the natural surroundings, creating a seamless interaction between the built environment and the landscape, which is significant for the community’s cultural identity.

To fully understand the nuances and operational details of the "Thought House," readers are encouraged to explore the project's architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas that illustrate the innovative design choices made throughout the development. These elements provide crucial insights into how the project functions as a cohesive living space tailored to the needs of the Kamentza community.
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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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