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Poured Earth Walls and Modular Clusters in Community-Focused Microhomes

Authors:
Cesar Caleb Bello Vargas, Ivan Sanchez Quiroz, Raul Rodrigo Narvaez Sanchez
Poured Earth Walls and Modular Clusters in Community-Focused Microhomes

Project in-detail

Utilizing poured earth walls and locally sourced timber, this microhome development fosters community engagement through modular clusters designed for sustainable living in Oaxaca.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes poured earth walls for enhanced thermal efficiency and natural insulation.
02
Integrates a biodigester system to convert organic waste into usable resources.
03
Features modular clusters that promote communal living and social interaction.
04
Employs locally sourced timber to reduce transportation emissions and maintain cultural relevance.
05
Includes rainwater harvesting systems designed to complement the region's climate.

## MBO NJI Microhome Project Overview

Located in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico, the MBO NJI microhome project addresses the need for sustainable housing while reflecting the sociocultural values of the region. This initiative integrates contemporary architectural design with local resources, prioritizing environmental responsibility and communal interaction. The project seeks to create dignified living spaces that not only provide shelter but also support a strong sense of community among residents.

### Spatial Configuration and Community Engagement

MBO NJI employs a modular design that allows for the interconnectedness of individual units, fostering communal activities without compromising personal privacy. This spatial strategy encourages social interactions through shared areas for meals and leisure, responding to the significance of familial and community bonds typical in Mexican culture. The adaptable layout of each microhome accommodates various daily activities, enhancing the functionality of the living spaces for each resident.

### Sustainable Practices and Material Innovations

The project is characterized by the use of locally sourced, sustainable materials, which minimizes its environmental impact. Key elements include the use of poured earth for walls and cop walls that draw on pre-Hispanic construction techniques, ensuring durability and climate relevance. Additional features such as inclined roofs facilitate rainwater collection and enhance cross-ventilation, vital for maintaining thermal efficiency in the region's warm climate. Solar panels installed on rooftops contribute to the homes' energy needs, aligning with the goals of sustainability and self-sufficiency.

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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

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