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Rammed Earth and Hemp Insulation in Adaptable Micro Living Spaces

Authors:
Hugo Trihan, Christopher Broyart, Clément Jolivet
Rammed Earth and Hemp Insulation in Adaptable Micro Living Spaces
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Rammed earth walls and hemp insulation define a compact living space designed to adapt to the changing needs of moderate-income families, emphasizing sustainability and efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth offers thermal mass for energy efficiency.
02
Hemp insulation enhances sustainability and reduces carbon footprint.
03
Adaptable designs accommodate changing family sizes and needs.
04
Utilizes local materials to minimize environmental impact.
05
Prefabricated construction streamlines the building process and reduces waste.

The microhouse concept emerges as a thoughtful response to the need for sustainable and adaptable housing in both rural and urban environments. Designed specifically for moderate-income families, the microhouse aims to tackle concerns related to environmental impact and the dynamic nature of modern living. The goal is to create a comfortable, efficient space that functions as a primary residence, demonstrating how compact living can coexist with practicality.

Design Flexibility

Flexibility is a core principle of the microhouse. The layout allows for different household configurations and future changes, such as accommodating children or providing office space. Each version of the design considers how the needs of the residents may evolve over time. This focus on adaptability ensures that the microhouse serves not just as a temporary solution, but as a lasting home for its occupants.

Material Utilization

Local materials play a vital role in the project, emphasizing sustainability and reducing environmental impact. Key materials include rammed earth, argyle screed, wood for structural elements, and hemp insulation. These materials help the building blend into its surroundings while supporting eco-friendly building practices. The careful selection of materials not only enhances the house's performance but also aligns with a philosophy of responsible design.

Sustainable Living Environment

Natural light and ventilation are crucial components of the design. The layout maximizes exposure to daylight while minimizing reliance on artificial lighting. Hemp insulation significantly improves energy efficiency, making the home comfortable in various climates. The use of rammed earth provides thermal mass, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and contribute to a pleasant living environment.

Construction Efficiency

A structured approach to construction enhances efficiency in the building process. The use of prefabricated elements minimizes waste and reduces overall costs. This method of construction enables the microhouse to be an affordable option for families while ensuring a high standard of quality. Careful planning and smart design come together to create a solution that addresses both financial and environmental concerns.

Natural finishes and textures inside the microhouse highlight its materiality, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The overall design emphasizes comfort and practicality. Each space invites interaction, fostering a sense of community and belonging within a compact footprint, underscoring a new way to approach living in limited space.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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