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Earthen Shelter Featuring Thermal Mass Construction and Sustainable Sand Materials

Author:
Zakharenko Kristina
Earthen Shelter Featuring Thermal Mass Construction and Sustainable Sand Materials

Project in-detail

Constructed primarily from locally sourced sand and utilizing thermal mass techniques, the subterranean dwelling effectively maintains a stable internal climate while providing a comfortable living space in a challenging desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed eight meters below ground to utilize earth’s natural insulation.
02
Incorporates two courtyards to enhance light diffusion and ventilation.
03
Primary material is locally sourced sand, reducing environmental impact.
04
Employs passive cooling techniques for energy efficiency.
05
Designed to withstand extreme desert conditions while providing comfort.

### Project Overview
Located in a desert environment, the Sand House incorporates subterranean design principles to enhance living conditions while addressing the challenges of extreme heat. The primary living spaces are positioned eight meters below ground, utilizing the earth's natural insulation to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. The design reflects a commitment to sustainability through the use of locally sourced materials, reducing the overall carbon footprint and promoting harmony with the surrounding landscape.

### Spatial Configuration and Functionality
The architectural layout is defined by a clear arrangement of functional spaces, each serving a distinct purpose. The living area is intended for social interactions, while the centrally located kitchen and dining spaces facilitate communal activities. Private areas, including bedrooms and bathrooms, are designed to ensure comfort and tranquility. A flexible working zone can adapt to various uses, such as a home office or study. Courtyards integrated into the massing strategy create a dynamic relationship between the built environment and outdoor spaces, promoting natural ventilation and light distribution.

### Material and Environmental Considerations
The construction predominantly employs sand, chosen for its excellent thermal properties, complemented by concrete for structural integrity. Wood and glass are utilized in façade elements, providing warmth and enhancing natural light transmission. The subterranean design not only offers wind resistance and humidity control but also leverages passive strategies for thermal management, significantly decreasing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. This approach embodies a commitment to environmentally sensitive practices while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

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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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