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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.
The AMA House is a contemporary residential architecture project that emphasizes sustainability and cultural continuity. Designed for a modern lifestyle, the house integrates traditional Emirati elements with innovative building technologies. The overall concept focuses on creating a living environment that fosters community interaction while prioritizing energy efficiency and resource conservation.

Key functional areas of the AMA House are organized across three levels. The ground floor encompasses essential communal spaces such as a living room, dining area, kitchen, and multi-purpose office. This layout promotes social interaction among family members and guests. The first floor is dedicated to private living, featuring multiple bedrooms and shared hall spaces, enhancing the functionality of the home. The second floor serves as an additional recreational area, allowing for tailored living experiences.

Sustainable design is at the core of the AMA House’s architectural strategy. The use of stabilized rammed earth panels for exterior walls provides superior thermal performance, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. Additionally, building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) are installed to harness solar energy efficiently. These designs reflect a comprehensive approach to energy management, minimizing environmental impact while optimizing operational costs.

The integration of water recycling systems demonstrates a commitment to resource conservation. Greywater collected from sinks and showers is repurposed for irrigation, supporting the lush landscaping that surrounds the house. This approach reduces water consumption and reflects an awareness of environmental stewardship. Furthermore, the architectural layout includes terraces and patios that connect indoor spaces with outdoor landscapes, encouraging a seamless transition between environments.

An essential aspect that sets the AMA House apart from other projects is its innovative use of recycled materials and adaptive design. By incorporating materials such as recycled bricks, the project minimizes its ecological footprint while maintaining aesthetic integrity. The adaptive design features allow spaces to be repurposed according to the changing needs of its occupants, ensuring longevity and relevance in a dynamic living context.

In exploring this project further, readers are encouraged to review the architectural plans and sections available for a deeper understanding of the design's intricacies. An analysis of the architectural designs provides additional insights into how the project effectively balances functionality with sustainable practices. Dive into the details of this architectural endeavor to appreciate its thoughtful approach to modern living and resource management.
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Enter an open architecture
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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
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