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Earth Block Home With Central Courtyard and Passive Design Features

Author:
Samia Shahzad
Earth Block Home With Central Courtyard and Passive Design Features

Project in-detail

Constructed from earth blocks and enhanced by a central courtyard, this residence utilizes passive design principles to foster a seamless connection with nature while providing comfortable living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced earth blocks for enhanced thermal regulation and sustainability.
02
Incorporates a central courtyard to promote natural light and outdoor engagement within the living space.
03
Employs passive cooling techniques through strategically placed openings for optimal air circulation.
04
Features a green roof that aids in water management and insulation for energy efficiency.
05
Integrates greywater systems that recycle water for irrigation, reinforcing its environmentally conscious design.
The Mirco Home is an architectural project designed with a focus on sustainability, modern living, and a deep connection to the surrounding environment. It embodies a thoughtful approach to residential design, prioritizing both functionality and the aesthetic integration of natural materials. This project serves as an insightful example of how architecture can harmoniously coexist with nature, providing an inspiring model for future residential developments.

At its core, Mirco Home represents a commitment to eco-friendly construction while ensuring that living spaces are adaptable to the needs of contemporary inhabitants. The layout is carefully crafted to optimize the use of space within a compact footprint, facilitating efficient living without sacrificing comfort. The open-plan structure encourages flexibility, allowing residents to reconfigure spaces according to their preferences.

One of the defining characteristics of the Mirco Home is the central courtyard, which acts as a focal point for the design. This element not only brings natural light into the interior spaces but also serves as an extension of the living area, promoting outdoor engagement and encouraging a lifestyle that embraces nature. The thoughtful zoning of spaces enhances the overall functionality, with the kitchen and living areas located in close proximity, facilitating interaction during daily activities.

The architectural details of Mirco Home highlight the careful selection of materials that are both sustainable and contextually appropriate. The use of adobe and earth blocks provides excellent thermal mass, naturally regulating indoor temperatures and contributing to energy efficiency. Concrete elements are integrated into the design for structural durability, while wooden finishes add warmth, creating a visual contrast that enhances the overall aesthetic.

Incorporating solar panels into the roof design further reinforces the project’s commitment to sustainability. This feature not only reduces energy costs but also aligns with modern architectural practices aimed at minimizing the ecological footprint of residential buildings. In addition, a green roof serves as both insulation and a natural habitat, collecting rainwater for irrigation and showcasing an innovative approach to resource management.

Mirco Home employs passive design strategies that emphasize natural ventilation, harnessing the power of strategic window placements to facilitate airflow throughout the living spaces. This design reduces the reliance on mechanical cooling systems, creating a more comfortable living environment while lowering energy consumption. The overall layout and orientation of the structure are meticulously considered to enhance the building's interaction with its natural surroundings.

The Mirco Home project exemplifies a unique approach to architecture by embracing minimalism while focusing on the user experience. The integration of indoor and outdoor spaces fosters a sense of tranquility and connection to the environment, making this design not just a place to live, but a nurturing haven.

For those interested in exploring the nuances of this architectural project, further details on architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas are available for deeper insights. The Mirco Home showcases an essential conversation between modern architecture and sustainable practices, encouraging a shift towards more responsible and thoughtful designs in the residential sector. To learn more about the specifics and ingenuity of this project, exploring the complete presentation is highly recommended.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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