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Rammed Earth Walls and Natural Light Define a Harmonious Residential Sanctuary

Author:
Brian James Foster
Rammed Earth Walls and Natural Light Define a Harmonious Residential Sanctuary

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth for thermal efficiency and large glass panels for natural light, the residence seamlessly integrates with its landscape to create a sustainable family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide superior thermal mass, enhancing energy efficiency.
02
Horizontal wooden slats offer customizable shading and visual texture to the façade.
03
Large glass panels promote natural light and seamless outdoor integration.
04
Landscaping incorporates native plants, supporting local biodiversity.
05
The design prioritizes flexibility in spatial arrangement to adapt to changing needs.

## Architectural Design Report: The House of Earth

### Project Overview
Located in a vibrant landscape characteristic of a warm climate, the House of Earth is a residential design that emphasizes a balance between contemporary architecture and environmental sustainability. The project seeks to create a harmonious relationship between the built environment and its natural context, drawing upon traditional architectural principles while incorporating modern materials and technologies.

### Spatial Arrangement and User Experience
The ground level features an open layout that fosters social interaction among residents. A welcoming entry courtyard transitions visitors through greenery and natural light, while interconnected public spaces—including the kitchen, dining area, and living room—facilitate communal gatherings and enhance connectivity with the surrounding landscape through expansive glass panels. In contrast, the upper level is dedicated to more private quarters, with each bedroom designed to maximize natural light and views, ensuring residents enjoy comfort and tranquility.

### Materials and Sustainability
The material selection plays a crucial role in the design’s objectives. Rammed earth, locally sourced, forms the building's primary structure, offering thermal insulation and sustainability. Complementary materials, such as wood, glass, and stone, enrich the aesthetic while reinforcing durability. The integration of passive cooling strategies and high-performance design elements further demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and environmental stewardship, making optimal use of regional climatic conditions.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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