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Mud Plaster Walls and Straw Bale Insulation Transforming Community Living Spaces

Authors:
Marius Entemeyer, Léa Barbet, Sacha Campillo
Mud Plaster Walls and Straw Bale Insulation Transforming Community Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Characterized by its use of mud plaster walls and straw bale insulation, this community living space integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings while providing essential communal and private areas for its residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mud plaster walls provide superior thermal regulation and blend with the local environment.
02
Straw bale insulation enhances sustainability while ensuring energy efficiency.
03
Open terraces foster seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
Communal areas are designed to encourage social interaction while maintaining privacy.
05
Integration of local materials reflects the architectural heritage of the region.
The architectural design project analyzes an innovative approach to integrating living spaces with the surrounding natural environment. This project features a series of interconnected structures that facilitate interaction while maintaining privacy, effectively addressing the spatial needs of its users. The design focuses on creating a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor areas, enhancing the overall experience within the environment.

Unique Design Approach to Indoor-Outdoor Integration

A key aspect of this design project is its emphasis on thresholds, which serve as vital transitions between spaces. The layout comprises communal areas, private guest accommodations, and dining spaces that are thoughtfully arranged to encourage social interaction while allowing for individual retreat. Courtyards and terraces are strategically placed to provide opportunities for outdoor engagement, enhancing the connection between the built environment and its natural surroundings. The selection of materials underscores sustainability, utilizing local resources such as mud plaster walls and red-tiled roofs that reflect regional architectural traditions. The use of wooden elements for window frames enhances natural light and ventilation, creating a comfortable living atmosphere.

Sustainable Material Choices and Functional Aesthetics

The project employs a diverse range of materials that balance durability and visual appeal. Key materials include mud plaster for thermal insulation, hardwood flooring for warmth and durability, and a stone foundation for structural stability. Notably, the incorporation of straw bales for insulation highlights the project's commitment to sustainable building practices. Each material was chosen not only for its functionality but also to contribute to the cohesive aesthetic of the design. The reception area, central to the project's layout, serves as a welcoming point, facilitating communication among users while showcasing thoughtful design principles. The integration of organic landscaping elements further enhances the project’s overall functionality and aesthetic appeal.

This analytical overview provides a fundamental understanding of the project's design approach and its distinctive features. To explore this architectural design in more detail, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and further architectural ideas, the reader is encouraged to delve deeper into the project's comprehensive presentation.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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