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Rammed Earth Structure Emphasizing Community Gathering with Photovoltaic Solutions

Author:
Misak Simon Terzibasiyan
Rammed Earth Structure Emphasizing Community Gathering with Photovoltaic Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth construction and integrated photovoltaic systems, this development fosters community interaction in a circular layout that prioritizes sustainability and efficient living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth construction enhances thermal mass and resource efficiency.
02
The design incorporates a central courtyard to foster community engagement.
03
Thirty-five photovoltaic panels provide renewable energy for the residence.
04
Lightweight walls allow for flexible interior configurations and design adaptability.
05
Local materials are utilized to minimize environmental impact and support the community.

# Architectural Project Overview: Unity of People for a Better Future

## Overview
Located in an arid region, this residential design prioritizes sustainable living and community engagement. The circular form of the structure signifies interconnectedness and promotes social interaction among its inhabitants. The intent is to create a dynamic living space that addresses contemporary challenges such as climate change and social fragmentation, while facilitating both private and communal experiences.

## Spatial Configuration
The layout features a central open-air courtyard that serves as a focal point for the home’s ground and first floors. The ground floor is designed with specific dimensions for various functional areas, including a living room of 39 m², a 15 m² Majlisi, and rooms allocated for utility and storage purposes. Surrounding the courtyard, these spaces encourage fluid movement and interactions among residents.

On the first floor, private bedrooms and terraced gardens maintain a clear demarcation between public and private areas, while ensuring connectivity through design. The circular arrangement of spaces enhances natural light penetration and ventilation, contributing to an inviting living environment.

## Material Selection and Sustainability
The project emphasizes sustainability through a careful choice of materials and construction techniques. Key components include rammed earth as the primary structural material, offering thermal mass for passive cooling. A total of 35 photovoltaic panels are integrated into the roof system to support renewable energy generation.

Glass louvres are strategically placed to promote airflow and natural lighting, while lightweight walls allow for adaptable interior configurations. The employment of locally sourced materials further aligns with sustainable development principles, minimizing transportation-related carbon emissions.

### Innovative Features
The design incorporates advanced sustainability features such as a rainwater harvesting system for non-potable uses and substantial roof overhangs for natural shading. The integration of greenery throughout the property not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also assists in microclimate regulation.

Pathways connecting homes and green spaces have been designed to foster community engagement, highlighting the importance of social interaction in enhancing overall quality of life for residents. This architectural approach not only draws from traditional forms but adapts them to contemporary living needs, positioning the project as a potential model for future residential developments in similar contexts.

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

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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.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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