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

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

### Project Overview

Located in the Sibundoy Valley of Colombia, the "Thought House" design addresses the housing needs of the indigenous Kamentza community while integrating cultural heritage and biodiversity. The intent is to create a living environment that promotes communal living, introspection, and connectivity with nature, aligning social and environmental sustainability within its architectural framework.

### Spatial Organization and Community Interaction

The design features a circular layout of micro-homes, encapsulating the values of unity and equality. Each housing unit is oriented toward a central communal area, which acts as the focal point for gatherings, cultural exchanges, and community activities. This organization promotes cohesiveness among residents, mitigating the hierarchies typically associated with linear housing designs. The flexible spatial configurations of the units accommodate various needs, including:

- **Cooking and Dining Areas**: Shared spaces that promote communal meal preparation and consumption.
- **Sleeping Quarters**: Designed for individual families, these spaces are adaptable to various uses.
- **Workspaces**: Multifunctional areas that support local artisans and professionals.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The choice of materials in the "Thought House" emphasizes local craftsmanship and environmental responsiveness. Notable materials include:

- **Quaducon™ Insulated Roof Panels**: Enhancing thermal performance and weather durability.
- **Acoustic Ceiling Tiles**: Improving sound insulation within shared spaces.
- **Natural Wood Structures**: Sustainably sourced wood that reflects local building traditions.
- **Insulated Wall Panels**: Promoting energy efficiency and comfort.
- **Eco-Friendly Finishes (Plywood)**: Locally sourced and non-toxic, contributing to a healthier living environment.
- **Rainwater Harvesting System**: An innovative approach to water conservation that underscores ecological stewardship.

These materials not only fulfill functional requirements but also resonate with the cultural heritage of the Kamentza community, providing both aesthetic coherence and symbolic significance within the living spaces.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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