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Hexagonal Modules Featuring Hempcrete and Integrated Water Harvesting in Arid Living Spaces

Author:
Julian David Mc Lean Ramos
Hexagonal Modules Featuring Hempcrete and Integrated Water Harvesting in Arid Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Hexagonal modules constructed with hempcrete and enhanced by integrated water harvesting systems create a sustainable living solution tailored for arid environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hexagonal module design optimizes space and enhances community interaction.
02
Hempcrete provides superior insulation and sustainable construction benefits.
03
Integrated atmospheric water harvesting system efficiently addresses local resource scarcity.
04
Biophilic design elements promote well-being through indoor greenery.
05
Natural ventilation minimizes energy consumption in desert climates.

**Overview**

The Saguaro House is situated on the urban fringes of southwestern cities, particularly in Arizona, where it addresses the unique challenges associated with arid climates. Designed to be both environmentally sustainable and functionally efficient, the project features hexagonally-shaped structures inspired by the local saguaro cactus. The primary intent is to create a living environment that integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings while promoting resource efficiency and community resilience.

**Spatial Strategy and Community Interaction**

The layout of the Saguaro House employs a hexagonal modular design that effectively utilizes space and fosters communal living. This configuration supports diverse living arrangements while enabling energy efficiency through passive design elements. The incorporation of natural ventilation through strategically placed windows enhances airflow, thereby reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. Moreover, communal spaces are designed to encourage interaction among residents, promoting social connectivity and cooperation within the community.

**Material Selection and Environmental Integration**

Materials used in the construction of the Saguaro House reflect a commitment to sustainability and contextual harmony. Key materials include hempcrete for insulation, wood and steel for structural integrity, and natural fiber composites for cladding. The use of glass not only facilitates natural lighting but also creates visual connections to the surrounding landscape. Renewable energy is harnessed through integrated solar panels, while rainwater harvesting systems contribute to water conservation efforts. This thoughtful selection of materials aligns with the project’s overarching goal of minimizing ecological impact while enhancing the livability of the structures.

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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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