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Earthen Walls and Polycarbonate Shelters for Desert Living

Author:
Zhenting Jiang
Earthen Walls and Polycarbonate Shelters for Desert Living

Project in-detail

Built with earthen walls and lightweight polycarbonate panels, the microhome provides a sustainable living solution in the arid Mo-Us Desert, supporting environmental protection efforts through its innovative water collection system and renewable energy capabilities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Innovative water collection system utilizes air and condensation.
02
Microhome features a flexible interior layout with multifunctional furniture.
03
Structure's elevation allows for practical tool storage beneath.
04
Designed for self-sufficiency with integrated photovoltaic panels.
05
Utilizes a mix of traditional earthen walls and modern polycarbonate.

The project addresses desertification in the Mo-Us Desert, one of China's largest desert regions, focusing on creating sustainable living environments for those working on environmental protection. The design revolves around a microhome that is self-sufficient and offers essential living and working spaces. The overall concept highlights adaptability to the harsh conditions of the desert and emphasizes effective management of limited resources.

Elevated Structure

The microhome sits elevated from the ground, which allows it to deal with the uneven desert terrain. This elevation serves multiple functions: it provides space for tool storage beneath the home and helps the structure withstand harsh weather. Lifting the dwelling minimizes excavation work, making it an appropriate solution for the challenging landscape.

Sustainable Water Collection

A notable component of the design is the podium that acts as a water-collecting system. It works by capturing air and condensation to provide residents with water, tackling the issue of scarcity in this dry climate. This innovative solution aligns with environmental goals and ensures that occupants have access to necessary water resources.

Renewable Energy Integration

The microhome features a sloped roof designed for photovoltaic panels. This setup allows the home to generate its own power, which is crucial for maintaining energy in a remote area. By incorporating renewable energy, the design promotes self-sufficiency and ensures reliability for daily living.

Flexible Interior Design

Inside, the microhome has a versatile layout that accommodates various living and working needs. It includes a foldable bed, curtains, and a flippable tabletop, which together create adaptable spaces. This flexibility is particularly useful for residents who may switch between work and personal activities, maximizing the limited area of the home.

The construction uses a combination of traditional brick, earthen walls, and lightweight polycarbonate panels. This mix not only provides solid insulation but also keeps construction costs reasonable, making the design accessible for its intended users. The final result is a functional living space that meets contemporary needs while addressing the realities of a challenging environment.

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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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