Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Rammed Earth Structures Enhanced by 3D Printing in Cappadocia

Authors:
Inana Abdulli, Refik berk Çıngıloğlu, Şenel sena Eşidir
Rammed Earth Structures Enhanced by 3D Printing in Cappadocia

Project in-detail

Constructed from rammed earth and enhanced by 3D printing, the design prioritizes sustainability and water management in a functional living space tailored for residents and tourists in the unique landscape of Cappadocia.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth construction enhances thermal efficiency while blending with the local landscape.
02
Photovoltaic panels are integrated to provide renewable energy for daily use.
03
3D printing techniques reduce material waste and allow for customization in design.
04
A rainwater collection system supports sustainable water management practices.
05
Living spaces are strategically arranged to optimize natural light and ventilation.

The site in Ürgüp Göreme, Cappadocia, Turkey, plays a central role in shaping the design's core philosophy. Situated in a region recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the location demands a thoughtful balance between modern living and traditional culture. The design aims to create living spaces that accommodate residents and tourists while faithfully respecting the area's rich historical context. The concept emphasizes sustainability and social responsibility, addressing the pressing environmental and economic challenges faced by the region.

Design Layout

The project features a well-organized layout that includes a kitchen, a working area, a living room, bedrooms, storage, and bathrooms. This arrangement allows for efficient use of space, making each area functional and easy to navigate. By clearly defining different spaces, the design fosters comfort and practicality for daily living.

Energy Efficiency

A significant aspect of the design is its focus on energy efficiency, highlighted by the use of photovoltaic panels. These panels provide renewable energy, which helps reduce dependence on non-renewable resources. By incorporating this energy solution, the design meets modern expectations for environmental responsibility and lowers operational costs for residents.

Water Management

Attention to water management is another noteworthy element of the project. The design includes both a filtered water tank and a rainwater collection system. These features aim to optimize water use, which is crucial in Cappadocia's unique climate. Collecting and filtering water ensures sustainable living conditions, minimizing the ecological impact of daily activities.

Construction Methodologies

Innovative construction methods are central to the project, including the use of rammed earth and 3D printing techniques. Rammed earth provides structural stability and captures the local aesthetic, enhancing the connection with the landscape. Meanwhile, 3D printing allows for customization in design while minimizing waste. This effective construction approach reflects a modern understanding of how to build responsibly in a sensitive environment.

The use of rammed earth construction not only elevates durability but also supports energy efficiency, maintaining comfortable indoor environments. The project embraces Cappadocia's geographical features, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to both style and sustainability.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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.

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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy