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Natural Ventilation Through Clay Breezeblocks in Earth-Centered Residential Design

Author:
Hasnaa El Iklil
Natural Ventilation Through Clay Breezeblocks in Earth-Centered Residential Design

Project in-detail

Harnessing natural ventilation through clay breezeblocks and utilizing compressed earth for construction, the design encapsulates a harmonious blend of cultural integration and sustainability, serving as a family residence in a thoughtfully organized layout.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes compressed earth blocks for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Incorporates clay breezeblocks for passive cooling and privacy.
03
Features a central courtyard that enhances natural light and airflow.
04
Integrates traditional Mashrabiyya screens as functional design elements.
05
Emphasizes community engagement through strategically designed communal spaces.

### Project Overview

Located in a culturally rich region, El Dorado represents an exploration of a harmonious living environment that emphasizes a connection to nature and the well-being of its occupants. The design integrates contemporary architectural practices with elements that reflect local culture, resulting in a dwelling that balances modernity with tradition. Thoughtful consideration of layout, material selection, and environmental factors contributes to a holistic approach to contemporary living.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project utilizes a diverse range of sustainable materials sourced locally to minimize environmental impact. **Compressed Earth Blocks (CEB)** serve as the primary construction material, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing carbon footprints. **Clay Breezeblocks** facilitate natural ventilation and daylight while reflecting local architectural styles. Interior finishes predominantly feature warm wood elements, creating a tactile link to the surrounding environment. Concrete and cement provide structural integrity, while the integration of vegetation throughout the design contributes to improved air quality and overall aesthetics. These materials not only fulfill functional requirements but also resonate with the intent of establishing a deep connection to the locality.

### Spatial Configuration

El Dorado's spatial arrangement centers around a **courtyard**, which acts as a vital communal space, promoting interaction and enhancing the flow between different zones of the house. The **ground floor** comprises an adaptable entryway that serves dual functions as a kitchen and dining area, encouraging a welcoming atmosphere. Surrounding this central space are family living areas, workspaces, and utility zones, all strategically oriented toward the courtyard. The **first floor** features four bedrooms designed for privacy, each offering views of the surrounding green spaces, thereby enriching the experience of natural light and connection to outdoor environments.

The design incorporates traditional elements such as the **Mashrabiyya** system to aid in ventilation while maintaining privacy through intricately crafted wooden latticework, demonstrating a commitment to cultural integration and community-centric planning. Additionally, green roofs and water-efficient systems enhance biodiversity and sustainability, further reinforcing the commitment to ecological responsibility within the design.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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