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Rammed Earth And Glass Harmony in Sustainable Living Design

Authors:
Rodion Dunaiev, Lara Helen Gallagher
Rammed Earth And Glass Harmony in Sustainable Living Design

Project in-detail

Incorporating rammed earth and extensive glass elements, this sustainable residence effectively merges traditional construction techniques with modern design, offering a functional living space that respects its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide excellent thermal mass and durability.
02
Large glass sections ensure ample natural light and passive solar heating.
03
Adaptive layout allows for flexible use throughout different seasons.
04
Community involvement is central to the construction process.
05
Insulation materials are sourced locally, enhancing sustainability.

### Overview

Located in rural Ireland, the Earth + Glass House reflects a commitment to integrating traditional building techniques with contemporary design. Covering a footprint of 24 square meters, the structure is designed to coexist within its natural surroundings while addressing key issues of sustainability. The project predominantly features rammed earth walls complemented by expansive glass sections, which enhance energy efficiency and facilitate the flow of natural light.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The floor plan of the Earth + Glass House is carefully organized to balance public and private spaces. An open-plan living area supports versatile daily activities and social gatherings, while a private bedroom and bathroom are strategically separated to promote seclusion. The design incorporates thoughtfully placed windows that maximize natural light while maintaining privacy. Additionally, the conservatory acts as a multifunctional space that opens to the exterior, adapting to seasonal uses and enhancing the overall user experience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The Earth + Glass House is constructed from a range of locally sourced materials that emphasize sustainability. Rammed earth serves as the primary structural component, providing both thermal mass and visual appeal. Extensive use of glass in the conservatory maximizes daylight penetration and acts as a passive heating system. Complementary materials, such as timber for structural elements, insulation including granulated cork, and gravel for effective drainage, all contribute to a minimized carbon footprint. This deliberate selection of materials reflects a commitment to environmental consciousness while paying homage to local architectural traditions.

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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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