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Off-Grid Micro Home with 3d Printed Hemp Composites

Authors:
Oliver Thomas, Amey Kandalgaonkar
Off-Grid Micro Home with 3d Printed Hemp Composites
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Constructed using 3D printed hemp composites, this off-grid micro home enhances sustainable living by integrating efficient space utilization with features for urban gardening, offering a practical solution for modern lifestyles.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printing technology for efficient construction.
02
Incorporates hemp composites for sustainable materials.
03
Designed for both urban and rural living environments.
04
Features systems for solar energy collection and rainwater harvesting.
05
Includes dedicated spaces for urban gardening and food production.

The CTRL+P Home is an innovative housing solution designed to meet the demands of modern living. Positioned in both urban and rural settings, it provides a compact and practical space for individuals and families. The design emphasizes versatility and sustainability, aiming to create a comfortable environment that encourages a connection with nature and responsible living.

Spatial Efficiency and Flexibility

The layout of the CTRL+P Home focuses on making the most of limited space. It includes interconnected areas that allow for various activities, such as working, cooking, and relaxing, all within close proximity. This design maximizes functionality, providing room for personal privacy while still encouraging social interaction among residents. The result is a living space that adapts as needs change over time.

Sustainable Energy and Water Management

A significant aspect of the CTRL+P Home is its capability for off-grid living. The home incorporates systems for collecting solar energy and harvesting rainwater, allowing it to operate independently from traditional utilities. This approach reduces reliance on external resources, promoting a self-sufficient lifestyle. Additionally, the design includes areas for growing food, which further supports sustainability and food security.

Material Innovation and Construction Techniques

The CTRL+P Home employs modern construction methods, particularly 3D printing, to create its structure. This technique supports rapid building while using fewer resources. The home also makes use of biobased materials, like hemp composites, which are environmentally friendly and contribute to a healthier space. These materials are a key part of the strategy to lessen the overall impact on the environment during construction and throughout the home's lifetime.

Design Integration with Nature

Biophilic design elements are prevalent in the CTRL+P Home, promoting a close relationship between the inhabitants and their surroundings. Large windows and easy outdoor access ensure that natural light fills the interior spaces. This connection to the outdoors encourages a sense of well-being and provides scenic views that enhance day-to-day living.

One notable aspect of the CTRL+P Home is its focus on creating opportunities for gardening and cultivation, thereby supporting a lifestyle that values both nature and self-sufficiency. The design creates an environment where residents can engage with their surroundings actively.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

`
Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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