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Natural Walls and Unfired Earth Create a Multifunctional Community Space

Authors:
Marco Rosati, Giulia Rosati, Lorenzo Rinaldi
Natural Walls and Unfired Earth Create a Multifunctional Community Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating natural walls made from unfired earth, the design creates an engaging multifunctional community space that reflects the landscape's unique characteristics and enhances social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Natural walls are constructed from unfired earth, enhancing the connection to the landscape.
02
The design includes a Grotto for community workshops and activities.
03
A pedestrian walkway connects different levels while offering views of the natural environment.
04
The square-theatre serves as a central gathering space for cultural events.
05
Sustainable construction methods prioritize low maintenance and eco-responsibility.

The design is positioned in a landscape marked by variations in terrain and natural beauty, which plays a significant role in shaping its function and overall concept. It aims to create a community space that encourages interaction and engagement while harmonizing with the surrounding environment. The project prioritizes the connection between built forms and nature, making it a place for various community activities.

Spatial Organization
The layout features natural walls that define different areas of use while allowing for a continuous flow throughout the site. These walls have both straight and curved forms, providing both structure and a sense of enclosure. Important elements include a square-theatre designed for community events, a tranquil area for relaxation, and an indoor Grotto designed for workshops. This arrangement promotes social interaction and community involvement.



Walkway and Connectivity
A key feature of the design is the light pedestrian walkway that connects various levels of the site. This elevated structure improves access and movement, allowing users to engage with both the built environment and the natural landscape. It serves as a path for people to traverse, enhancing the overall usability of the space while providing views of the natural walls and activities happening within the community.



Sustainability and Materials
Sustainability is a central principle of the design. It emphasizes energy efficiency and ecological responsibility in both construction and operation. Unfired earth and stone are used as materials for their low environmental impact and compatibility with the surrounding landscape. These choices support a construction approach that considers local traditions and the area's climatic conditions.



Design Details
The design reflects a connection between history and contemporary needs, featuring elements that hint at a sense of continuity. Traces of "ancient" bricks are incorporated into the design, creating a visual narrative that links the past with the present. The strategic positioning of the natural walls not only enhances the aesthetic but also ensures that interior spaces receive ample natural light and ventilation, contributing to an inviting atmosphere for all users.

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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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