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Rammed Earth and Solar Integration in a Sustainable Community Residence

Authors:
Maryame Slimani, Akram Seddiki, Amine Nasry
Rammed Earth and Solar Integration in a Sustainable Community Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating stabilized rammed earth and building-integrated photovoltaics, this residence exemplifies resource-efficient design while fostering community connections in a modern residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes stabilized rammed earth for enhanced thermal mass and durability.
02
Incorporates building-integrated photovoltaics for self-sufficient energy generation.
03
Features a comprehensive greywater recycling system for landscape irrigation.
04
Design allows for adaptability to changing occupant needs and preferences.
05
Integrates outdoor terraces to enhance communal interaction and connectivity.

## Overview

Located within a context that values cultural heritage and modern living, the AMA House exemplifies a commitment to sustainable design principles while addressing contemporary residential needs. The project straddles the intersection of traditional Emirati architectural elements and innovative construction techniques, aiming to create a harmonious living environment that fosters cultural diversity and community interactions.

## Spatial Strategy

The layout of the AMA House is thoughtfully organized across three levels to optimize functionality and user experience. The ground floor encompasses essential social spaces, including a living room, dining area, and kitchen, alongside an adaptable office space. Outdoor terraces and patios enhance the connection to nature, while a dedicated car parking area offers practical convenience. The first floor is primarily dedicated to private living and includes bedrooms and communal areas, promoting both privacy and social interaction. The second floor presents an intimate retreat, providing additional leisure or private space.

## Material and Environmental Integration

The selection of materials reflects a strong emphasis on sustainability. Stabilized rammed earth panels are employed for their thermal mass properties, contributing to energy efficiency in accordance with bioclimatic design principles. The incorporation of building-integrated photovoltaic systems allows for both aesthetic enhancement and energy generation, positioning the structure as self-sufficient in energy consumption. Water conservation is addressed through a greywater recycling system that serves the landscaped areas, underscoring an environmental stewardship commitment. Furthermore, the use of recycled materials in construction elements emphasizes a sustainable approach to sourcing and resource management.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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