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Hemp-Insulated Octagonal Shelter with Natural Stucco Finish for Community Living

Authors:
Sheyda Maadelat, Reyhaneh Ashrafi
Hemp-Insulated Octagonal Shelter with Natural Stucco Finish for Community Living

Project in-detail

Crafted with hemp insulation and finished in natural stucco, this octagonal dwelling prioritizes sustainability while serving as a communal living space for the Navajo community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built with hemp insulation for improved sustainability and energy efficiency.
02
Features a unique octagonal design to enhance community interaction and spatial flow.
03
Utilizes natural stucco for weather resistance and aesthetic integration with the environment.
04
Incorporates passive ventilation strategies to optimize natural airflow and thermal comfort.
05
Designed with community input, reflecting cultural heritage and local values in its functionality.
The OctaOasis Home is an architectural project located in Tuba City, Arizona, within the Navajo reservation. This design addresses the pressing housing needs of the local community while integrating sustainable principles and cultural heritage. The structure utilizes a unique octagonal form to optimize space and functionality, allowing for a cohesive interaction between the internal living areas and the external environment. This project emphasizes community engagement and reflects an understanding of the natural landscape, making it a significant contribution to local housing solutions.

A notable aspect of the OctaOasis Home is its focus on multifunctionality. The design incorporates flexible spaces that can adapt to various uses, from family gatherings to community meetings. This adaptability is essential for fostering social interaction among residents. The layout is planned to minimize reliance on artificial lighting and heating, showcasing a commitment to sustainable living through the implementation of passive design strategies.

The use of materials is another distinguishing feature of this project. The exterior employs stucco for durability and insulation, while a combination of wood framing and hemp insulation enhances thermal efficiency. These choices underscore a commitment to environmentally responsible practices that resonate with the local climate and culture. The architectural design ensures that the home is not only aesthetically appealing but also functionally sound.

Energy efficiency is prioritized through strategic window placement and ventilation systems, allowing for natural airflow that moderates indoor temperatures without the need for mechanical systems. This approach reflects a broader trend in contemporary architecture that seeks to harmonize built environments with their natural surroundings, further emphasizing the project's dedication to sustainability.

The OctaOasis Home stands out due to its integration of community input in the design process. By considering local traditions and social needs, the project has developed a sense of place that maintains cultural integrity while providing modern amenities. This approach creates a model for future architectural endeavors within indigenous communities.

For those interested in exploring the OctaOasis Home further, the project presentation includes comprehensive architectural plans, sections, and designs that offer deeper insights into its innovative concepts and functional layouts. Engaging with these materials can enhance understanding of the architectural ideas and methodologies employed in this thoughtful project.
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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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