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Cross-Laminated Timber and Rammed Earth Unite in a Climate-Responsive Residential Space

Author:
Marcio Tolotti
Cross-Laminated Timber and Rammed Earth Unite in a Climate-Responsive Residential Space

Project in-detail

Employing cross-laminated timber and rammed earth, the design integrates passive cooling through engineered wind towers, creating a sustainable residential environment that fosters community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth walls for thermal mass and energy efficiency.
02
Features engineered wind towers for passive ventilation throughout the structure.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Layouts include flexible spaces adaptable to changing family needs.
05
Emphasizes local materials to harmonize with the surrounding environment.

### Overview
Located within a context rich in Arab architectural heritage, the "House of the Future" project seeks to integrate traditional design principles with contemporary functionality. The intent is to create a living environment that respects historical context while accommodating modern lifestyles. The layout is designed to foster community interaction and communication, providing privacy without fostering isolation.

### Spatial Organization
The house is organized into distinct functional zones, each serving specific purposes:
- **Basement Area**: Dedicated to cooking and communal living, offering both utility and a space for social interaction.
- **Ground Floor**: Contains technical spaces, exhibiting architectural simplicity while serving practical needs.
- **First Floor**: Focused on sleeping quarters, ensuring privacy and tranquility for residents.

These zones are interconnected through carefully designed pathways that promote ease of movement, enhancing the overall flow of the space.

### Materiality and Construction
The project employs a diverse array of materials that harmoniously blend traditional craftsmanship with modern construction techniques:
- **Reinforced Concrete**: Ensures structural strength and durability.
- **Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)**: Adds warmth and sustainability, allowing for flexible design solutions.
- **Earthen Materials**: Incorporate local stone finishes and utilize rammed earth techniques, reflecting cultural consciousness and environmental sensitivity.
- **Ceramic Tiles**: Integrated for thermal insulation and contributing to aesthetic appeal in both ceilings and flooring.

This thoughtful selection of materials not only enhances the overall design but also supports energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

### Architectural Features
Prominent architectural elements contribute significantly to the house's identity:
- **Barrel Vaults**: Provide both functional benefits and dramatic spatial experiences in the interior.
- **Wind Towers**: Modern interpretations of traditional features, designed to facilitate passive ventilation by harnessing natural breezes.
- **Multi-functional Spaces**: Open-plan layouts and adaptable rooms accommodate changing needs, promoting a dynamic living environment.

Such features exemplify a commitment to integrating modern comfort with traditional architectural wisdom.

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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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