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Natural Stone and Earth Construction Forming Circular Communal Spaces

Author:
Hanato Fukumoto
Natural Stone and Earth Construction Forming Circular Communal Spaces

Project in-detail

Constructed with local stone and earth, the design creates circular communal spaces that harmonize with the natural landscape while fostering sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from local stone and soil, enhancing regional sustainability.
02
Circular layout promotes communal interaction and connectivity among residents.
03
Design incorporates natural ventilation strategies for energy efficiency.
04
Adaptation of ancient building techniques creates a modern interpretation of prehistoric shelters.
05
Integrated vegetation around the structure fosters biodiversity and ecological awareness.

### Overview
Located in a region rich in historical and natural significance, the project examines the interplay between human habitats and their environment, inspired by prehistoric dwelling techniques. The intent is to create spaces that foster emotional connections to nature while paying homage to ancestral living. By employing locally sourced materials and integrating natural elements, the design reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship and communal living.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout features a circular design that encourages inclusivity and interaction among users. Central gathering areas are surrounded by partitions that evoke the characteristics of primitive enclosures, facilitating a sense of community. Gentle elevations and depressions within the site mimic natural topography, allowing for a harmonious relationship with the landscape. Architectural strategies prioritize natural ventilation and light, enhancing energy efficiency while providing comfort. Vegetation surrounding the structure supports both aesthetic values and functional benefits, such as shade and air purification.

### Material Selection
The material palette is derived entirely from the surrounding environment, emphasizing sustainability and locality. Key materials include rock, pebbles, sand, soil, clay, and glass—each carefully selected for their durability and relevance to the local context. This approach not only strengthens the project's sustainability ethos but also underscores a commitment to integrating a circular economy into construction practices. Additionally, the use of glass sourced from local sand helps facilitate natural lighting and visual connections to the exterior environment, reinforcing the design's focus on blending indoor and outdoor spaces.

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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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