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Natural Fire Wall and Bamboo Framework Enhancing Community Interaction

Author:
Jerome Lecat
Natural Fire Wall and Bamboo Framework Enhancing Community Interaction

Project in-detail

A natural fire wall crafted from stones and succulents complements the lightweight bamboo structure, creating a community-focused space that prioritizes sustainability and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Foundation made entirely from local stones.
02
Main structure utilizes lightweight bamboo for flexibility.
03
Inner bamboo layer enhances thermal performance.
04
Natural fire wall integrates stones and succulents for safety.
05
Circular floor plan encourages communal interaction.

The NAUTILUS project presents a thoughtful approach to design that emphasizes sustainability and a connection to the natural environment. Located in a scenic setting, it features a circular structure that promotes open spaces and encourages social interaction. The overall concept focuses on using materials and design strategies that are environmentally responsible and suitable for the local context.

Foundation and Structure

The building rests on a foundation made of local stones, which solidifies its presence within the landscape. This choice of materials highlights the importance of regional resources, contributing to the overall durability of the structure. The primary framework of the building is constructed from bamboo, a lightweight material that allows for generous interior spaces without relying on heavy supports. Bamboo grows quickly, making it an eco-friendly option.

Material Layers

A secondary layer constructed from wood adds warmth and a welcoming touch to the design. This wood layer complements the bamboo and enriches the overall tactile experience of the space. An additional inner layer of bamboo reinforces the visual continuity and can also improve thermal comfort and sound quality. The inclusion of insulation and a water-proof barrier ensures that the building remains protected from environmental factors, addressing moisture concerns effectively.

Design Features

The circular floor plan, measuring 19.30 meters in diameter, creates a layout that encourages flow and interaction among occupants. The height of 6.50 meters contributes to a spacious feeling while allowing natural light to brighten the interior. A distinguishing feature of the design is the natural fire wall made from stones and succulents. This element serves a practical purpose while introducing a lush aesthetic, reflecting a deeper connection to nature.

The design of NAUTILUS integrates various components that enhance functionality and environmental awareness. This results in a structure that is both practical and harmonious with its surroundings, offering a thoughtful response to contemporary architectural challenges.

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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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