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Earth Infill and Xlam Panels in a Two-Level Guesthouse Embracing Community Living

Authors:
Lorenzo Glielmi, Engineer Di matteo, Ersila Bicaku
Earth Infill and Xlam Panels in a Two-Level Guesthouse Embracing Community Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with continuous XLAM panels and raw earth infill, the two-level guesthouse fosters community engagement while seamlessly integrating into the Umbrian landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
XLAM panels provide structural support while enhancing thermal efficiency.
02
Raw earth infill panels reflect a commitment to ecological building practices.
03
Large south-facing windows maximize natural light and views across the landscape.
04
The design features a central square, encouraging communal interaction among guests.
05
A single-pitched roof design captures solar energy and reduces heat gain.

The housing module is located in the scenic region of Umbria, where the design integrates modern ideas with the area's historical architecture. It serves as a guest residence, aiming to create a relationship between the building and its natural surroundings. The overall concept focuses on a two-level layout that encourages interaction among guests and optimizes the use of daylight.

Design and Layout

The layout features two levels that promote a sense of connection throughout the space. An inviting staircase links the two levels, enhancing movement and engagement. Living areas are thoughtfully positioned to take advantage of views across the landscape, enriching the experience for everyone who stays there.

Facade and Light

Large south-facing windows are key to the facade, allowing generous amounts of natural light to fill the interiors. This not only creates a warm atmosphere but also connects the inside with the outside. The design includes a double-height living area, contributing to a feeling of spaciousness and encouraging relaxation and socializing among occupants.

Materiality and Sustainability

The structure employs continuous XLAM panels, providing structural support while also focusing on energy efficiency. Raw earth infill panels made from 120mm blocks add an ecological aspect to the building. These materials reflect the project's commitment to sustainability, combining contemporary methods with traditional practices.

Community Integration

The layout arranges guest houses around a central square, reminiscent of a medieval village. This design fosters relationships among guests, offering shared spaces while also ensuring privacy. The architecture demonstrates a thoughtful blend with the landscape, creating a calm retreat in the beautiful region of Umbria.

The choice of a single-pitched roof also plays a role in sustainability, capturing sunlight while providing shade during warmer months. The overall design shows an awareness of environmental needs, underscoring a commitment to living in harmony with the landscape.

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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
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