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Fungal Construction and Hemp Insulation in a Bioclimatic Living Environment

Author:
Félix Roudier
Fungal Construction and Hemp Insulation in a Bioclimatic Living Environment
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Constructed with a novel fungal system and enhanced by hemp insulation, the bioclimatic structure offers an eco-friendly living environment designed to adapt to changing climate conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fungal construction system enhances structural sustainability.
02
Hemp insulation provides superior thermal performance.
03
Integrated wastewater recycling optimizes water usage.
04
Strategically placed garden improves natural ventilation.
05
Three-pile foundation minimizes ecological footprint.

The design addresses the challenges brought on by global warming, focusing on issues such as droughts, water shortages, and rising temperatures. Set up as a sustainable living environment, the building combines innovative design with practical solutions for ecological balance. A fungal construction system is used alongside low-tech bioclimatic strategies to create a contemporary response to climate-related issues.

Conceptual Framework

The building features four distinct levels, each with specific functions arranged to promote usability and comfort. The ground floor connects directly to a fresh garden, which is an important element providing both beauty and environmental benefits. This garden helps improve ventilation and cooling, taking advantage of natural processes to maintain a pleasant indoor climate.

Spatial Organization

Inside, the layout is organized with careful zoning. Day and night areas are located on different levels, allowing for privacy while also encouraging interactions when desired. The central plateau acts as a shared space, suitable for various activities. Surrounding this area, additional structures accommodate essential functions, ensuring that all living needs are met.

Bioclimatic Integration

A three-pile foundation system is utilized to reduce the environmental footprint. This foundation is essential in supporting integrated bioclimatic systems, including ducts linked to a wastewater recycling system designed for efficient water use. A well is also included, allowing for natural ventilation and cooling, using the garden's ecological benefits. To address heating needs, a fireplace connects to a wood stove, promoting the use of renewable energy sources.

Material Considerations

Materials used in the building include steel foundation piles, prefabricated timber frame walls, and hemp insulation. These choices reflect a focus on sustainability while ensuring the structure remains strong and lasts over time. The materials also contribute to the overall thermal performance of the building, supporting the environmental goals of the design.

The design features a practical attic that maximizes the vertical space, allowing for versatile use of the upper levels. This enhances the connection between living areas, creating a dynamic environment where occupants can feel engaged with their surroundings.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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