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Cylindrical Microhome Crafted from Mud Bricks and Slate Roofing for Sustainable Living

Author:
Kashish Gupta
Cylindrical Microhome Crafted from Mud Bricks and Slate Roofing for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

A cylindrical structure constructed from mud bricks and topped with slate roofing not only withstands seismic forces but also maximizes thermal efficiency and passive ventilation, serving as a compact living space in the challenging climate of Ladakh.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cylindrical design enhances structural stability and aids in seismic resilience.
02
Sun-dried mud bricks provide natural insulation and thermal mass for temperature regulation.
03
Slate roofing enables efficient drainage and snow management, reducing maintenance.
04
Spiral staircase optimizes vertical space and promotes fluid movement within the microhome.
05
Strategic window placement maximizes passive solar heating while minimizing cold wind exposure.

### Overview

The Microhome project in Ladakh, India, addresses the region's challenging environmental and climatic conditions through an innovative design that integrates local building traditions with contemporary architectural practices. Occupying a site of approximately 25 square meters, the structure is conceived as a response to both aesthetic and functional requirements, making it suitable for the extreme weather challenges typical of the area.

### Spatial Configuration and Structural Integrity

The architectural design employs a cylindrical form, chosen for its enhanced stability in seismic conditions, a crucial factor in an earthquake-prone region. This circular configuration facilitates optimal natural light penetration and airflow, essential for maintaining comfort amidst significant temperature fluctuations. The ground floor utilizes strategically placed openings to ensure effective ventilation, while a spiral stair connects to private spaces on the upper floor, enhancing both accessibility and spatial dynamics within the compact layout.

### Materials and Construction Techniques

The construction incorporates vernacular materials to promote sustainability and energy efficiency. Sun-dried mud bricks comprise the walls, providing thermal mass that helps regulate indoor temperatures. Slate roofs are selected for their fire-resistant qualities and low maintenance requirements, effectively managing snow accumulation. The foundation is built from stone, ensuring durability against environmental stresses. Traditional techniques are harmoniously blended with modern practices, ensuring structural integrity while respecting local craftsmanship. Key materials include sun-dried mud bricks, slate for roofing, and wooden rafters, allowing for both resilience and adaptation to the local context.

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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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