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Hempcrete Home with Passive Solar Design and Modular Construction

Hempcrete Home with Passive Solar Design and Modular Construction
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Constructed with hempcrete and designed for passive solar efficiency, the residence integrates modular elements to create a self-sufficient living space that harmonizes with its environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with hempcrete for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Incorporates passive solar design principles for energy efficiency.
03
Features a bent A-frame structure to improve natural ventilation.
04
Utilizes modular components for rapid assembly and adaptability.
05
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management.

### Overview

Located in France, the AUTONOME project addresses the critical need for sustainable housing through the innovative use of hemp-based technologies. The design intends to promote ecological awareness and resilience to climate change by prioritizing the use of eco-friendly materials and strategies for self-sufficiency. The architectural approach combines modern living with a commitment to minimalism and sustainable practices in order to create a living environment that aligns with evolving environmental challenges.

### Material Innovation

The design employs lime-hemp concrete to construct high-performance monomaterial walls, effectively leveraging local resources to reduce the carbon footprint. This material choice not only supports sustainability but also enhances the building’s thermal performance by utilizing the natural insulating properties of hemp. The incorporation of thermal inertia contributes to stable indoor conditions, optimizing comfort through passive solar heating and natural temperature regulation.

### Spatial and Functional Design

The layout of the residence emphasizes minimalism while maintaining functional living spaces. Large floor-to-ceiling windows facilitate a strong connection between indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing natural light and promoting a sense of continuity with nature. Additionally, the project features prefabricated modular components that allow for efficient off-site construction, ensuring adaptability to diverse housing needs. The systems integrated into the design include energy-efficient technologies such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, enhancing the building’s autonomy and further reducing its environmental impact.

### Integrated Systems

The project incorporates advanced multifunctional systems designed for sustainability and self-sufficiency. Key features include a wood stove combined with solar thermal systems, providing reliable energy sources despite variations in weather conditions. Phytoremediation techniques are also integrated to enhance air and water quality, effectively utilizing natural processes within the surrounding ecosystem. These system features illustrate a comprehensive approach to energy management and resource conservation, reinforcing the commitment to ecological sustainability throughout the design.

### Materials Utilized

Notable materials within the project comprise:

- **Lime-Hemp Concrete**: Offers thermal resistance while promoting sustainability.
- **Photovoltaic Panels**: Facilitate solar energy use, contributing to power autonomy.
- **Rainwater Harvesting Systems**: Enable water conservation by collecting rainwater for domestic purposes.
- **Hemp Insulation**: Provides effective thermal and acoustic insulation.
- **Wood Components**: Used in structural elements to emphasize the use of natural materials.
- **Glass Facades**: Enhance natural illumination and reinforce the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

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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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