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Earth Walls and Palm Timber Create a Sustainable Sanctuary with Integrated Courtyards

Authors:
Mohammed Achour, Omar Achour, Hafsa Harti, Kenza Qninba
Earth Walls and Palm Timber Create a Sustainable Sanctuary with Integrated Courtyards

Project in-detail

Utilizing earth walls and palm timber, this residence integrates multiple courtyards to enhance natural ventilation and privacy, providing a comfortable living environment suited for family use.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes earth walls for thermal mass and insulation.
02
Incorporates palm timber, highlighting local craftsmanship.
03
Features multiple courtyards for enhanced privacy and ventilation.
04
Includes solar panels integrated into the roof structure.
05
Utilizes lime mortar for durability and environmental sustainability.
The Earth Veil House is a residential architecture project situated in a region characterized by its unique climatic challenges and cultural context. This design emphasizes a balance between privacy and openness, creating an effective living environment that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape. The project is structured around a central courtyard, enabling a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, while ensuring that the home remains comfortable and energy efficient.

The Earth Veil House features a multi-level layout that supports both public and private areas. The ground floor consists of communal spaces, allowing family interaction while ensuring distinct zones for service and leisure. The first floor accommodates private bedrooms designed to provide tranquility and retreat. Additionally, a basement level fulfills functional requirements, housing utility spaces such as parking.

One of the project’s distinctive features is its integration of nature through multiple courtyards, which serve as green lungs for the building. These outdoor spaces enhance privacy while contributing to improved air quality and natural light penetration. The use of earth, palm wood, and lime mortar highlights a commitment to locally sourced materials, promoting sustainability and fostering a connection to the region’s tradition of craftsmanship.

Sustainability is a core principle of the Earth Veil House, implemented through passive design strategies and environmentally conscious materials. The project leverages solar panels for energy needs and wind catchers to maximize natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. This holistic approach not only addresses energy efficiency but also promotes a comfortable indoor climate throughout the year.

The Earth Veil House exemplifies a thoughtful architectural design that prioritizes functionality while addressing environmental and cultural aspects. Its unique approach to the use of space, material selection, and sustainable solutions offers a model for modern residential architecture in similar contexts. Readers interested in further examining the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas should explore the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its dimensions and innovative concepts.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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