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Rammed Earth and Wooden Screens Shape a Central Courtyard for Contemporary Family Living

Author:
Heriadi Joewono
Rammed Earth and Wooden Screens Shape a Central Courtyard for Contemporary Family Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth and enhanced by wooden screens, this residence centers around a communal courtyard, creating a versatile family living space that balances privacy and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced rammed earth for thermal efficiency.
02
Incorporates wooden screens for passive cooling and privacy.
03
Features a central courtyard promoting communal living and interaction.
04
Utilizes prefab bathroom modules for quick construction and reduced waste.
05
Integrates solar panels to support energy self-sufficiency.
The Courtyard House is a modern architectural project that embodies a synthesis of community living, sustainable practices, and traditional design elements. This dwelling is designed to accommodate family life while fostering a connection to cultural heritage. The house is articulated around a central courtyard, which serves as an important functional and aesthetic component. The architecture functions as a dual-purpose space, providing both privacy for individual family members and communal areas for interaction.

The design approach centers around the principles of flexibility and sustainability. The architectural layout allows for varying uses of spaces, adapting to the changing needs of the family. Key areas within the house include open-plan living spaces, private rooms, and multifunctional areas that can be repurposed as required. The integration of natural light and ventilation is emphasized, promoting a healthier living environment.

Innovative Use of Traditional Elements
What distinguishes the Courtyard House from typical residential projects is its integration of traditional architectural features in a contemporary context. The use of precast rammed earth as a primary material not only contributes to the building’s thermal efficiency but also reflects historical building practices in the region. In addition, the incorporation of mashrabiya screens enhances privacy while facilitating passive cooling. These unique design elements effectively connect the modern structure with cultural significance, enhancing its contextual relevance.

Sustainable Design Strategies
The project has been carefully conceptualized to incorporate various sustainable design strategies. The use of a steel-concrete composite system streamlines construction while ensuring structural integrity. Solar panels are integrated into the design for renewable energy generation, contributing to the project’s energy efficiency. Furthermore, rainwater harvesting is facilitated through the architectural setup, minimizing resource consumption and fostering responsible water management.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural details, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project's presentation for further insights into its innovative design ideas.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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