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Rammed Earth Walls and Greywater Systems in a Sustainable Residential Retreat

Author:
Lluís Marcet salvador
Rammed Earth Walls and Greywater Systems in a Sustainable Residential Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth walls and integrating greywater systems, the design emphasizes sustainability and resource efficiency in a versatile residential retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique design integrates rammed earth walls with high thermal mass for energy efficiency.
02
Greywater system enhances resource management and water conservation throughout the residence.
03
Living spaces are strategically oriented to maximize morning light and natural ventilation.
04
Basement is intentionally buried to maintain a consistent indoor temperature year-round.
05
Small windows frame exterior views while maintaining intimacy and warmth in living areas.

The design integrates sustainability and functionality, set within an environment that promotes connectivity with nature. The structure is organized to meet the diverse needs of its occupants while carefully considering ecological factors. The concept emphasizes natural light and thermal comfort, creating spaces that foster efficiency and well-being.

Roof Overview
The roof is equipped with solar protection features and includes a perimeter fence along with a clothesline, fulfilling practical outdoor needs. This arrangement not only promotes energy savings but also reflects a responsible approach to resource use. The incorporation of a rainwater tank and greywater management system further supports efficient water practices within the home, highlighting a dedication to environmental care.

Living Spaces
Inside, the layout features a Daylight Floor that utilizes larger windows to increase natural light and enhance air circulation for areas designed for active use, like cooking and working. This design encourages productivity while prioritizing the health of residents. There are smaller windows in the living area that frame the outdoor landscape, creating a warm atmosphere that connects the interior to its setting.

Basement Design
The basement serves as a resting and storage area, intentionally keeping light levels low for specific functions. With its buried design, the basement maintains a stable indoor temperature, which helps in reducing energy consumption while providing options for multi-use, including potential shelter. These considerations reflect an understanding of stability and comfort in the design.

Material Considerations
Rammed earth walls, cork, and natural wool insulation are among the materials selected, all contributing to energy efficiency and climate resilience. These choices support the overall vision of sustainability while enhancing the building's thermal performance. The materials relate to the goal of creating a harmonious and environmentally conscious space.

The North-East elevation features a blind facade that improves insulation and effectively manages solar radiation. This demonstrates the planning and care that went into addressing environmental impacts, establishing a thoughtful balance between design and nature.

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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
competition now

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