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Clay-Finished Home with Straw Insulation and Water Management Solutions

Authors:
Lukasz Sakowicz, Urszula Nowacka
Clay-Finished Home with Straw Insulation and Water Management Solutions
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Constructed with straw insulation and finished in clay, this home incorporates advanced water management systems, offering a compact yet functional living space focused on sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
High ceilings and large windows enhance natural light and openness.
02
A multifunctional 3-in-1 unit serves as a bed, sofa, and desk.
03
Innovative water purification system using Aquaporin protein and osmosis.
04
Straw insulation reduces environmental impact while enhancing energy efficiency.
05
Rainwater reservoir supports sustainable water management practices.

The Straw House project showcases a clear approach to sustainable living combined with efficient design. Located in an area ideal for ecological construction, it places a strong emphasis on making the most of limited space. The design concept focuses on integrating essential functions into a compact layout, providing a comfortable and inviting environment.

Multifunctional Living

Inside the Straw House, different living needs are met with a 3-in-1 unit that serves as a bed, sofa, and desk. This thoughtful arrangement allows for flexibility in use. High ceilings and large windows enhance the feeling of openness, creating a pleasant atmosphere. Sliding walls ensure that privacy can be achieved whenever necessary, enabling the home to adapt to various lifestyle demands.

Water Management Solutions

A significant aspect of the Straw House is its innovative approach to managing water. It incorporates a purification system that uses a membrane with Aquaporin protein and osmosis, aiming to deliver clean drinking water. This feature addresses important concerns about water quality in many households. Additionally, a rainwater reservoir supports sustainability efforts, reducing the reliance on external water sources.

Sustainable Material Choices

The materials used in the construction of the Straw House are carefully chosen to support its sustainability goals. The structure is built with a wooden frame, insulated with straw, and finished with clay. These materials are environmentally friendly and sourced locally. This selection helps optimize energy efficiency and reduces the home's ecological footprint, aligning with current practices that prioritize responsible resource management.

Design Features and Amenities

Thoughtful design features enhance the overall livability of the Straw House. Overhead cabinets provide necessary storage space, while folding chairs contribute to a flexible living area. A suspended net serves as a deckchair, allowing for relaxation or movie watching, adding leisure elements to daily life.

These details highlight a commitment to creating a functional living space that balances comfort with practicality. The design encourages engagement with the surroundings, fostering a connection to both the home and its environment.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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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