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Perforated Brick Walls and Bamboo Panels Create Sustainable Communal Living in Cambodia

Authors:
Albert Manhertz, Norbert Takacs, Beata Bocska
Perforated Brick Walls and Bamboo Panels Create Sustainable Communal Living in Cambodia

Project in-detail

Crafted from perforated brick and enhanced with bamboo panels, the design fosters sustainable communal living while blending traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality in a vibrant Cambodian setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates locally sourced perforated bricks, enhancing ventilation and aesthetics.
02
Private cabins are designed with transparent walls, maximizing natural light while maintaining fly protection.
03
Bamboo elements are used for both structural integrity and decorative purposes, honoring local craftsmanship.
04
A multifunctional communal space allows for flexible use, adapting to various community needs.
05
The layout encourages interaction with nature through carefully planned pathways and landscaped green areas.
The Cabinfamily project represents a thoughtful fusion of community-oriented design in an architectural context that is deeply inspired by traditional Cambodian building practices. This project is meticulously crafted to provide spaces that not only accommodate individual privacy but also foster a sense of belonging among its users. Each element of the design is a reflection of a commitment to sustainability, functionality, and cultural resonance, aimed at enhancing communal living while honoring local architectural heritage.

At its core, the architecture of the Cabinfamily project embodies the principles of shared living experience. Designed with a series of private cabins surrounding a central communal area, the layout promotes social interaction among residents while ensuring that personal space is preserved. The central community space is multifunctional, serving various roles such as a kitchen, dining area, and relaxation zone, thereby creating a hub for daily activities. This strategic organization of space is an excellent example of how architectural design can enhance community engagement.

The materials utilized in the Cabinfamily project further emphasize its unique approach to sustainability and local craftsmanship. Traditional Cambodian bricks are a central feature, chosen for their characteristic perforated design, which allows for ventilation while providing a weather-resilient structural component. The use of lightweight wooden structures in the private cabins pays homage to traditional construction techniques, ensuring that the cabins remain in harmony with the environment. Additionally, the inclusion of transparent materials in cabin walls facilitates natural lighting and promotes a connection with nature, enriching the living experience while serving functional needs.

Pathways constructed from local materials weave through the landscape, enhancing accessibility while inviting exploration of the natural surroundings. These elements not only ensure practicality but also encourage a deeper interaction with the environment, strengthening the bond between the architectural design and the landscape. The integration of bamboo walls, which serve both decorative and practical purposes, reinforces the project’s commitment to blending seamlessly with its ecological context.

The innovative design approaches of the Cabinfamily project exemplify how contemporary architecture can respond to traditional lifestyles while addressing modern needs. By engaging with local materials and architectural forms, the project not only supports a sustainable ethos but also preserves cultural heritage. This blend of old and new creates an architectural narrative that resonates with its users, making it a relevant solution for contemporary communal living.

In summary, the Cabinfamily project stands as a model of thoughtful architectural design, focusing on community, sustainability, and cultural integrity. Its emphasis on communal spaces alongside private retreats fosters a holistic living experience that champions both individuality and togetherness. To fully appreciate the nuanced details of this architectural endeavor, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for insights into its architectural plans, sections, and design philosophies. Through a more in-depth examination of these elements, one can gain a comprehensive understanding of the innovative ideas that shape this unique living environment.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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