Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Rammed Earth and Recycled Steel Create a Self-Sufficient Micro Home Emphasizing Urban Agriculture

Authors:
Francisco Segovia pinilla, Belén González maldonado, Ivette González carrasco
Rammed Earth and Recycled Steel Create a Self-Sufficient Micro Home Emphasizing Urban Agriculture

Project in-detail

Combining rammed earth construction with recycled steel, this micro home integrates urban agriculture and renewable energy systems to create a self-sufficient living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide exceptional thermal mass and insulation for energy efficiency.
02
Recycled steel framing enhances structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
03
An integrated urban agriculture system supports local food production within the living space.
04
Renewable energy generation is achieved through photovoltaic panels and wind turbines.
05
Modular components allow for flexible configuration to suit varying site conditions.
The Global Sustainable Unit (GSU) is an architectural project designed to function as a self-sufficient living environment. It responds to contemporary challenges in urbanization and environmental sustainability by combining innovative design practices with sustainable materials. The GSU serves as a model for future housing solutions that prioritize ecological balance and resource efficiency. It embodies the concept of a micro home, incorporating flexible living spaces that can adapt to the needs of diverse populations in various locations.

Modular Design and Adaptability
At the core of the GSU is its modular design, allowing for customizable configurations that can respond to different geographical contexts. This adaptability facilitates scalability and offers solutions for urban, suburban, and rural settings. The architectural layout promotes multiple uses, supporting communal activities while providing individual living quarters. This multi-functional aspect enhances the potential for communal engagement, which is essential in fostering social connections within communities.

Sustainable Material Use and Energy Efficiency
The GSU focuses on integrating sustainable materials that contribute to low environmental impact. Materials such as recycled steel, bamboo, rammed earth, insulated concrete forms, and reclaimed wood are strategically chosen for their durability and ecological benefits. These materials are not only effective in reducing carbon footprints but also enhance the thermal performance of the structure, addressing energy efficiency.

Additionally, the project includes advanced technological systems for energy generation and resource management. It features a photovoltaic and wind energy system that enables off-grid living, as well as an autonomous water purification system. These facilities allow for self-sufficiency, decreasing reliance on external resources and improving resilience to environmental fluctuations.

Innovative Approaches to Sustainability
The GSU synthesizes a range of innovative strategies to promote sustainability beyond just material selection. Bioclimatic design principles are integrated to ensure comfort and energy efficiency. The strategic placement of large windows and overhangs optimizes natural light and ventilation, reducing energy consumption while maintaining occupant comfort. Moreover, the incorporation of an integrated food production system encourages local food sourcing, reducing the overall ecological footprint and promoting healthy living.

This project serves as a reference point for future architectural endeavors focused on sustainable living. By emphasizing self-sufficiency and ecological harmony, the GSU invites discourse on sustainable design practices and their applicability to modern housing contexts.

For a more detailed examination of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas presented in this project, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Understanding these elements will provide deeper insights into the methodologies employed and the potential implications for future architectural projects.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy