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Hempcrete Insulated Dwelling With Integrated Beehives and Urban Greenery

Authors:
Stanislav Paunovic, Vera Petronijević
Hempcrete Insulated Dwelling With Integrated Beehives and Urban Greenery

Project in-detail

Incorporating Hempcrete insulation and a central atrium with integrated beehives, the design fosters a sustainable living space that promotes urban biodiversity while serving as a residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features an atrium with 18 AZ beehives for direct interaction with pollinators.
02
Utilizes Hempcrete insulation for enhanced energy efficiency and sustainability.
03
Incorporates modular design elements that allow for spatial flexibility.
04
Integrates a rooftop garden, promoting biodiversity in an urban landscape.
05
Utilizes solar panels to generate renewable energy for the residence.
The Bee House represents a forward-thinking architectural project that merges residential living with environmental sustainability, focusing on the conservation of pollinators. This innovative design addresses the ecological challenges posed by urbanization, aiming to enhance biodiversity within city settings while promoting awareness and interaction with nature. The project features a compact dwelling that facilitates urban beekeeping, creating a unique opportunity for residents to engage with their environment actively.

The core function of the Bee House lies in its dual purpose: to provide a living space for individuals while fostering a habitat for bees. It incorporates specialized beehives situated within a central atrium, allowing residents to observe and interact with these essential pollinators. The layout is designed to optimize natural light and ventilation, creating a comfortable living environment while reducing energy consumption.

The design incorporates multiple functional zones: a living area that doubles as a dining and sleeping space, a kitchen, a bathroom, and an apitherapy area. This spatial configuration promotes seamless interaction and versatility, ensuring that the space adapts to the varying needs of its residents.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the project, evidenced by the selection of eco-friendly materials. The use of Hempcrete for insulation exemplifies the commitment to energy efficiency, while the EPDM membrane roofing and wooden flooring enhance durability and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, the integration of solar panels supports energy generation, further contributing to the project's sustainability goals.

Unique design approaches distinguish the Bee House from typical urban dwellings. The central atrium serves not only as a means of light and air circulation but also as an educational component, facilitating discussions around beekeeping and environmental stewardship. The project encourages apitourism, allowing visitors to understand the importance of bees in the ecosystem while enjoying a natural respite in an urban environment.

The adaptable design of the Bee House reflects three contextual modalities: semi-nature, urban rooftops, and natural ecosystems. This flexibility allows the structure to thrive across different geographical locales, addressing the diverse needs of its surroundings.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural strategies employed in the Bee House, including architectural plans and sections, it is recommended to explore the project in greater detail. Reviewing the architectural designs and innovative concepts will provide valuable insights into how this project elegantly combines living spaces with ecological responsibility.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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