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Natural Materials Structure with Elevated Air Circulation for Efficient Spice Drying

Author:
Kenneth Bostock
Natural Materials Structure with Elevated Air Circulation for Efficient Spice Drying

Project in-detail

Elevated air circulation and a triangular design enhance the functionality of a spice drying facility immersed in lush greenery, reflecting a commitment to natural materials and ecological harmony.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated air circulation is achieved through careful elevation variations.
02
The facility incorporates a distinctive triangular form to enhance landscape integration.
03
Natural materials are prioritized to promote environmental harmony.
04
Optimized internal layout supports diverse functionality for spice drying.
05
Strategically positioned overhangs aid in passive ventilation and shading.

The design focuses on a spice drying facility located within a landscape rich in greenery. This setting is not only suitable for spice processing but also highlights the building's connection with nature. The concept centers on functionality, aiming to create an efficient layout that accommodates the needs of the facility while blending well with its environment.

Spatial Organization

The plan organizes clear access routes and specific operational areas, particularly emphasizing the Main Access and the Spice Drying sections. This careful arrangement improves the facility's efficiency, allowing for a smooth workflow that is vital for the spice drying operation. The included Schematic Cross-sections reveal different elevations of +6.00, 2.55, and 0.00, which are designed to promote proper air circulation. This aspect is essential to maintaining the right conditions for drying spices.

Architectural Form

The building's triangular design distinguishes it within its setting. This geometric choice adds visual interest while enhancing the relationship between the structure and its landscape. By placing the facility in the midst of lush greenery, the design works to ensure that the building complements the ecological surroundings instead of disrupting them. This approach reflects a commitment to sustainable architectural practices.

Interior Functionality

Inside, the design prioritizes natural light and open spaces, which help with both operational needs and energy efficiency. The arrangement supports a flexible use of areas, allowing adaptation as required over time. Abundant natural light reduces the need for artificial lighting, further aligning the facility with modern sustainability approaches. This focus on light creates an inviting environment that enhances productivity.

Materials and Integration

The materials chosen for the design focus on a natural palette. This choice emphasizes the importance of connecting the building with its surroundings while promoting a sustainable approach. By using materials that blend well with nature, the design aligns with current building practices.

The roof design features overhangs that provide shade and allow for passive ventilation, contributing to the building's overall efficiency and comfort. This attention to detail helps create a suitable environment for the spice drying process, enhancing both functionality and user experience.

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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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