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Rammed Earth Community Housing With Bamboo and Permeable Paving for Climate Resilience

Author:
Danmir Roxas Mercado
Rammed Earth Community Housing With Bamboo and Permeable Paving for Climate Resilience

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth construction and permeable paving, this community housing initiative integrates bamboo elements for enhanced sustainability while addressing the specific climatic challenges of desert living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth construction enhances thermal mass for energy efficiency.
02
Bamboo elements contribute to structural flexibility and sustainability.
03
Permeable paving supports natural water drainage and reduces heat.
04
Central courtyard facilitates community interaction and passive cooling.
05
Integrated wind catchers improve ventilation throughout the living spaces.
The architectural design project focuses on a residential complex that integrates modern living with traditional influences. Set against a backdrop reminiscent of desert environments, this project aims to create a sustainable and functional living space. The design promotes community interactions while addressing climatic challenges through its innovative features and material choices. The overall goal is to facilitate a harmonious relationship between residents and their environment.

The project comprises four residential blocks organized around a central courtyard. This layout plays a crucial role in encouraging communal activities and offers a space for social engagement. Each block contains residential units designed to foster both privacy and interaction. The integration of courtyards into the layout not only enhances aesthetics but serves as a natural cooling mechanism, contributing to passive design strategies that reduce reliance on artificial temperature control.

The architecture emphasizes adaptability and flexibility, accommodating the evolving needs of its residents over time. Balconies extend from living spaces, designed for potential future modifications. This forward-thinking approach allows for personalized outdoor space, aligning with individual living preferences. Furthermore, the inclusion of traditional architectural elements, such as wind catchers, highlights a respect for local culture while improving airflow and natural ventilation.

Sustainability is prioritized through a careful selection of materials, demonstrating a commitment to reducing environmental impact. Key materials used in the project include rammed earth, compressed earth blocks, recycled concrete, bamboo, semi-transparent solar panels, and permeable paving. These materials contribute not only to the structural integrity of the buildings but also serve to enhance the thermal performance and energy efficiency of the residential units. The use of rammed earth and bamboo underscores an adherence to sustainable practices, particularly relevant in the context of climate-responsive design.

Community-oriented features are integral to the project, reinforcing a sense of belonging. The central courtyard serves as a focal point for shared activities, effectively bridging individual living environments. By facilitating informal encounters and communal events, this design fosters connections among residents, promoting a cohesive community dynamic.

Overall, this architectural design project exemplifies a balanced integration of modern needs and traditional practices. Its unique blend of materials and spatial organization distinguishes it from conventional residential developments. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation further. Review the architectural ideas represented in this design to appreciate the full scope of its innovative approach.
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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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