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Rammed Earth Construction with Natural Light Integration for Flexible Residential Living

Rammed Earth Construction with Natural Light Integration for Flexible Residential Living
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Combining the thermal mass of rammed earth construction with strategically placed natural light, the design offers a flexible residential solution that adapts to evolving occupant needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Uses structural insulated rammed earth to enhance thermal efficiency and durability.
02
Incorporates hydrophobic admixtures to improve moisture resistance in construction.
03
Features modular design allowing spatial flexibility for evolving resident needs.
04
Integrates biophilic elements with indoor gardens to foster a connection with nature.
05
Employs a disassembly strategy for ecological sustainability in construction practices.

# Architectural Analysis Report: ‘ard.EARTH Project

## Overview
Located within a context that emphasizes ecological sustainability, the ‘ard.EARTH project addresses contemporary environmental challenges through its commitment to innovative design principles. The project embodies a philosophy of Future Proofing, focusing on resilience and adaptability in the face of climate change. Central to this vision is the concept of Design for Disassembly (D&D), which acknowledges the significance of resource limitation and the necessity of adaptable living spaces over time.

## Modular Spatial Strategy
The design features two distinct spatial modules: a 2.5m x 5.0m size allocated for sanitary functions and a larger 4.5m x 5.0m module designated for multipurpose use. This modular approach facilitates diverse living arrangements and supports an organic evolution of the spaces, allowing them to adapt to the changing needs of the inhabitants.

The ground floor layout incorporates a Majlis, promoting social interaction, in addition to a functional kitchen and pantry area optimized for natural light and spatial balance. Living rooms are configured to accommodate various activities, creating a coherent flow between private and communal areas. A service block further enhances practicality while maintaining the overall aesthetic appeal. The design connects indoor and outdoor spaces, emphasizing the importance of biophilic principles in fostering a strong relationship between residents and their environment.

## Material Selection and Environmental Considerations
A significant aspect of the ‘ard.EARTH project is its thoughtful use of materials, particularly Structural Insulated Rammed Earth, which combines the resilience of concrete with eco-conscious components. This material choice enhances thermal regulation while safeguarding indoor air quality by eliminating harmful chemicals.

Other materials include wood, which adds warmth and aesthetic richness, glass, strategically employed to maximize natural light and minimize heat loss, and natural stone, potentially used for landscaping. This comprehensive material strategy not only prioritizes energy efficiency but also integrates the building within its ecological context, reinforcing its sustainability credentials through a clear focus on health and environmental responsibility.

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

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Competition organisers

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.

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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
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Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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