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Rammed Earth And Cross-Laminated Timber Foster Integrated Living In Urban Settings

Author:
Quy Phu Nguyen
Rammed Earth And Cross-Laminated Timber Foster Integrated Living In Urban Settings

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living spaces while promoting sustainability and community engagement in an urban residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide natural insulation and thermal mass, reducing energy consumption.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity while promoting rapid construction.
03
Charred wooden shingles create a weather-resistant exterior with minimal maintenance.
04
A bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and views while minimizing material use.
05
Integrated communal spaces encourage social interaction and a sense of community.

### Project Overview

Located in an arid climate, "THE LINES: Organic Rhythm in Urban Living" exemplifies a residential design that harmonizes modern living with natural elements. The project targets enhanced livability amidst environmental challenges by prioritizing sustainability, community engagement, and the integration of technology. The architectural approach emphasizes a balance between indoor and outdoor spaces, reflecting a commitment to improving both individual and communal experiences.

### Spatial Configuration

The design features a series of distinct zones that promote social interaction and privacy. Generously sized living spaces are complemented by abundant natural light from large windows, creating an inviting atmosphere while providing views of extensive green areas. A continuous playground integrates leisure and family activities, while multifunctional rooms offer versatility, adapting to residents' daily needs. The layout supports communal gatherings while ensuring personal retreat areas, fostering connections within the neighborhood through shared spaces.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The choice of materials plays a crucial role in the project’s sustainability and energy efficiency. Key materials include rammed earth and clay block walls, which provide thermal mass and insulation with low environmental impact. Timber is used in structural components for its renewability, while photovoltaic panels facilitate partial off-grid energy operation. Movable sun screens adjust exposure based on sunlight, and the use of recycled materials serves to minimize waste. These selections collectively enhance the aesthetic appeal and contribue to a healthier indoor environment through resilient finishes and improved air quality.

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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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