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Natural Cooling with Terracotta and Cob Construction for Climate-Responsive Living

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Natural Cooling with Terracotta and Cob Construction for Climate-Responsive Living
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Incorporating terracotta water cooling systems and cob construction, the residence is designed to enhance energy efficiency and comfort within the desert climate while providing adaptable living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes terracotta water jars for passive cooling, reducing reliance on mechanical systems.
02
Incorporates cob walls, enhancing thermal mass and energy efficiency.
03
Features large glass openings to maximize natural light while minimizing heat gain.
04
Integrates customizable spaces that adapt to the occupants' changing needs.
05
Employs a moucharabeh design for solar protection and privacy.

### Overview
Located in the Emirates Arabes Unis, the project is designed to respond to the unique challenges of the desert climate while incorporating elements of local culture and tradition. It aims to create a sustainable living environment that preserves historical narratives through architectural features that foster energy efficiency and comfort. The design emphasizes a harmonious relationship between built and natural environments, reflecting contemporary practices alongside deep-rooted cultural traditions.

### Climate-Responsive Design
The structure employs strategies that emphasize natural ventilation and bioclimatic principles to mitigate heat gain, thereby enhancing indoor comfort while reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. An innovative natural air conditioning system utilizes terracotta jars filled with water, promoting air circulation in a manner consistent with traditional methods. The integration of solar panels and a solar water heater further supports the building's energy independence, aligning it with the overarching goal of sustainability.

### Material Selection
A careful selection of materials underscores the project's commitment to sustainability and regional identity. Cob, made from straw and clay, is used for its excellent thermal properties, while terracotta supports the cooling system. Wood provides natural insulation and structural support, and precast concrete walls offer stability and thermal mass. Large glass windows invite natural light and connect the interior to the surrounding landscape, promoting well-being and a sense of space. The landscaping elements are designed to integrate with the local ecosystem, further enhancing the ecological balance of the site.

The house is organized with a clear distinction between public and private spaces; open-plan living areas on the ground level encourage social interaction, and the upper level ensures privacy for residents. Thoughtful placement of windows optimizes natural light and airflow, contributing to a comfortable and sustainable living environment.

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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.

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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

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