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Rammed Earth and Solar Panels Create Sustainable Athlete Housing in High-Altitude Environment

Author:
Andre Nikolai Berlin
Rammed Earth and Solar Panels Create Sustainable Athlete Housing in High-Altitude Environment

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth and modular construction methods, this sustainable housing solution for athletes in high-altitude Iten offers integrated community spaces and innovative water management, addressing the specific needs of serious runners.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth construction for enhanced thermal stability in a high-altitude environment.
02
Incorporates solar panels seamlessly into the architectural design for energy efficiency.
03
Features modular units that can easily adapt to accommodate varying group sizes.
04
Includes community spaces that foster interaction among athletes and promote shared experiences.
05
Employs local materials to reduce environmental impact and enhance cultural connection.
The Runners House is an architectural project designed to cater specifically to the needs of young professional athletes in Iten, Kenya, an area renowned for altitude training. This project seeks to provide a supportive living environment that balances privacy and community interaction, maximizing both comfort and functionality for its residents.

The design accommodates the essential needs of runners, focusing on elements crucial for athletic recovery and daily routines. It combines living spaces, workout areas, and communal facilities into a cohesive structure that promotes a sense of community while respecting the individual needs of each athlete.

Unique Housing Solutions for Athletes

A distinct aspect of the Runners House is its spatial organization that integrates both private and communal living areas. Each unit is designed to facilitate interaction among residents while also providing private spaces for rest and recovery. The architectural layout encourages communal engagement, reflecting the social nature of training camps. This integration fosters not just personal well-being, but also a collective spirit among athletes, enhancing their training experiences.

The structure features slanted roofs and modular rooms that employ renewable energy technologies, incorporating solar panels into its design. The use of locally sourced materials, such as rammed earth, demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. These choices ensure that the architecture responds not only to the immediate climate but also to the cultural context of the region, enhancing the project’s relationship with its environment.

Sustainable Design and Environmental Integration

The architectural design emphasizes sustainability, utilizing materials that reduce the overall environmental footprint of the house. Use of QuadCore AWP LEC wall panels and QuadCore KS1000RW LEC roof panels contributes to energy efficiency while providing robust insulation. The roof's unique configuration allows for efficient rainwater harvesting and supports the overall water management strategy.

The incorporation of dynamic features, such as flexible living spaces, enhances the adaptability of the house. Spaces can transition easily according to the needs of athletes, whether for solo training sessions or communal gatherings. This flexibility, combined with environmental considerations, positions the Runners House as a model for future developments in sports-oriented architecture.

To understand more about the specifics of the Runners House, including its architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. This examination will provide deeper insights into the architectural strategies employed and the overall design philosophy that underpins this unique housing project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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