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Hemp Block Construction With Double Facade Enhances Energy Efficiency in Family Living

Authors:
Thelma Alicia Blake Alvarez, Gustavo Mata Rocha, Diego Armendariz
Hemp Block Construction With Double Facade Enhances Energy Efficiency in Family Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with hemp blocks and a double facade, this residence maximizes energy efficiency and adaptability while providing flexible space for family living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from hemp blocks, enhancing sustainability and insulation.
02
Incorporates a double facade to optimize energy efficiency and thermal comfort.
03
Features a versatile modular design adaptable to changing family needs.
04
Utilizes rainwater harvesting systems for improved water conservation.
05
Integrates passive climate control for a naturally comfortable indoor environment.

### Overview

The project is situated in a climate-sensitive environment that benefits from abundant sunlight and opportunities for natural ventilation. Its design intent focuses on creating multifunctional living spaces that cater to the diverse needs of contemporary residents while prioritizing sustainability and adaptability. The approach integrates innovative modular forms that enable flexibility, allowing spaces to evolve with the occupants’ changing requirements.

#### Spatial Configuration

The architectural layout employs a modular design strategy that promotes flexibility in living arrangements. This configuration supports distinct areas for both public and private functions, creating a balance between openness and intimacy. Public spaces, such as living rooms and dining areas, are designed to encourage social interaction, while private areas, including bedrooms with attached bathrooms, provide serene personal retreats. The integration of a 360-degree façade fosters natural light and cross-ventilation, enhancing the indoor environment.

#### Material Choices and Sustainability

The project utilizes a range of sustainable materials, including hemp blocks, which provide excellent insulation and contribute to the building's ecological footprint reduction. The exterior is complemented by anti-cracking low-density plaster and reinforced with limestone and cement for structural integrity. Interior spaces feature warm, neutral tones with engineered wood and composite materials to ensure both aesthetic appeal and practicality. Energy efficiency is achieved through the incorporation of a solar panel system and passive climate control mechanisms, while rainwater harvesting systems further enhance water conservation efforts.

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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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