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Octagonal Gathering Space with Load-Bearing Masonry and Natural Ventilation

Authors:
Juan Antonio Maronese, Juan Maronese, Manuel Galvez
Octagonal Gathering Space with Load-Bearing Masonry and Natural Ventilation

Project in-detail

An octagonal Majlis serves as the central gathering space, constructed with load-bearing masonry and designed for natural ventilation, highlighting a modular approach that seamlessly integrates sustainable features to create a functional family residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central octagonal Majlis enhances community interaction and cultural integration.
02
Load-bearing masonry construction offers durability and thermal mass benefits.
03
Natural ventilation systems optimize airflow and indoor climate management.
04
Sustainable features include rainwater harvesting and solar panel integration.
05
Strategically placed windows create visual connections to the surrounding landscape.

## Project Overview

The architectural design situates a residence within a tropical or subtropical context, emphasizing the integration of modern and traditional values through modular construction. This approach aims to foster a connection with the natural environment while prioritizing comfort and functionality for its inhabitants. The design features innovative spatial planning and incorporates regional materials that reflect local significance.

## Spatial Configuration and Functionality

The residence is structured around two parallel load-bearing masonry walls, with the dimensions of 7.0 x 10.0 meters guiding the placement of windows, doors, and interior elements. This modular framework supports a diverse aesthetic, contributing to a balanced design expression. The interior layout spans three levels, including a basement: the ground floor encompasses communal spaces such as the kitchen, dining, and living areas, enabling efficient circulation; the first floor is dedicated to private living spaces, including bedrooms and a study; and the basement contains utility services, maintaining an uncluttered living environment.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices prioritize a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal, featuring load-bearing masonry for structural integrity, concrete for durability, and wood for warmth in decorative elements. The design also integrates metal grilles for ventilation and security, extensive glass openings to maximize natural light, and plaster finishes for refined surfaces. Sustainable strategies include solar panels for energy generation and systems for rainwater harvesting, contributing to a reduced ecological footprint while ensuring resource efficiency.

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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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