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Compressed Earth Blocks and Integrated Solar Solutions for Desert Living

Author:
Brian James Foster
Compressed Earth Blocks and Integrated Solar Solutions for Desert Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing compressed earth blocks and innovative solar integration, the design fosters sustainable living within a desert environment, creating a harmonious residence that optimizes natural resources and promotes energy efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes compressed earth blocks for structural efficiency and climate resilience.
02
Incorporates a central courtyard to enhance natural ventilation and light distribution.
03
Features extensive green roofing to support local biodiversity and manage heat.
04
Integrates solar panels into the design for energy independence and sustainability.
05
Adopts flexible space planning to accommodate evolving family needs over time.

## Overview

Located in a desert environment, the project integrates contemporary architectural practices with traditional sensibilities, aiming to create a sustainable living space that respects and revitalizes the local landscape. The design emphasizes a balance between aesthetic appeal and functional performance, drawing from both modern architectural forms and local vernacular traditions.

## Spatial Strategy

The site planning adheres to the natural contours of the desert topography, minimizing environmental disruption. Elevated on piloti, the structure enhances natural ventilation and provides shaded outdoor areas. The overall layout centers around a courtyard that fosters interaction between indoor and outdoor spaces, with communal areas such as the kitchen and living spaces strategically positioned for optimal flow. Enclosed private areas on the second level ensure privacy while maintaining connectivity to common spaces, reinforcing a sense of community within the household.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

The building's material palette is carefully chosen to meet both structural needs and sustainability goals. Compressed earth blocks serve as the primary structural element, providing thermal mass and durability while lowering the carbon footprint. Extensive use of glass panels facilitates natural light, enhancing the indoor-outdoor relationship. Additional materials include engineered wood for interior warmth, reinforced concrete for structural integrity, and steel for expansive open spaces.

Sustainability is further prioritized through the incorporation of solar panels and green roofs, supporting renewable energy usage and improving insulation. Prefabricated components such as kitchens and bathrooms streamline construction, ensuring precision and efficiency. Features like natural ventilation systems and vertical gardens contribute to energy conservation and local biodiversity, reflecting the project’s commitment to environmentally responsible design.

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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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