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Rammed Earth Walls and Folded Plane Design in a Micro Home Community

Authors:
Quazi mohd Ashique-uz-zaman, Anita Rahman
Rammed Earth Walls and Folded Plane Design in a Micro Home Community

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth walls and an innovative folded plane layout, this micro home integrates green spaces and sustainable practices to create a compact living environment for a working couple.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with rammed earth walls for durability and thermal efficiency.
02
Features a flexible folded plane layout for adaptable living spaces.
03
Incorporates a one-to-one ratio of built area to green space, enhancing ecological impact.
04
Utilizes a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.
05
Employs passive house principles for reduced energy consumption.

The architectural design project "Micro Home Macro Impact" introduces a practical approach to living in smaller spaces while embracing sustainability. Designed as a self-sufficient home for a working couple, this micro home focuses on efficient use of space. By prioritizing simplicity and functionality, it connects the living environment with nature. The design emphasizes ecological responsibility, showcasing a modern concept that meets current housing needs.

Concept and Context

The micro home is adaptable to various locations, with specific requirements such as the presence of at least two trees and an equal amount of green area matching the built space. This focus on integrating nature encourages a balanced coexistence between the home and its environment. The design aims to establish a one-to-one ratio of built area to green area, highlighting the importance of nature in residential living and improving the overall ecological footprint.

Design Organization

The internal layout features a central circulation spine, surrounded by functional spaces that maximize their use. The clever design allows for flexible arrangements, letting residents change how they interact with each area. Folded plane millwork provides versatility, making it possible to adapt rooms based on daily needs. This innovative approach creates smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, bringing open-air elements inside and enhancing the overall living experience.

Sustainability Features

Sustainable living is crucial in this micro home. The design uses passive house principles to reduce energy consumption. Natural light and ventilation are effectively harnessed, leading to lower electricity usage. Rainwater harvesting systems provide a way to collect rain for non-potable use. Walls and roofs are designed with high insulation to ensure energy efficiency. Furthermore, the structure's airtight design controls indoor temperatures, minimizing the need for mechanical systems.

Materials and Construction

The choice of materials plays a vital role in achieving the design's goals. The green roof system comprises drainage boards, roof membranes, insulation layers, and vapor barriers. These elements ensure effective water management and improve thermal performance. Additionally, insulated rammed earth walls contribute to durability and offer a unique look that fits well with the natural surroundings. This combination of materials supports energy efficiency while blending indoor and outdoor spaces.

Garden terraces add to the design, providing more green areas for the residents. These spaces encourage direct interaction with nature, making it easy for individuals to enjoy the outdoors from their home. The overall design reflects a commitment to responsible living, combining functionality with a strong connection to the environment.

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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.

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
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