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Rammed Earth Walls and Rotating Panels Create Dynamic Light Play in Sustainable Residential Design

Authors:
Juan Matias Cevallos Jara, Sebastian Paul Helguero Delgado
Rammed Earth Walls and Rotating Panels Create Dynamic Light Play in Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Rammed earth walls and rotating panels work in tandem to optimize natural light and temperature control in a thoughtfully designed home that fosters community interaction and environmental sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth construction maximizes thermal mass for energy efficiency.
02
Rotating panels provide customizable daylight control throughout the day.
03
A central courtyard collects rainwater for non-potable uses.
04
Natural ventilation enhances air quality while reducing energy consumption.
05
The design prioritizes communal spaces to foster social interaction among residents.

### Project Overview
Located in Guimangira, Ecuador, the Home of Shadows integrates solar passive strategies for effective light and temperature regulation within the dwelling. The design reflects an understanding of the local climate and cultural context, centering on the interplay of light and shadow, resulting in spaces that resonate with the ecological and social dynamics of the region.

### Spatial Organization
The layout of the Home of Shadows is carefully organized to support both communal and private activities. Central to the design is a courtyard that maximizes natural light access and serves as a transitional space. The public sector consists of the living room, kitchen, and dining area, characterized by large openings that establish a strong visual connection to the outdoors. In contrast, the private sector, which includes bedrooms and utility areas, is designed for tranquility and privacy while maintaining a connection to the surrounding environment.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The project emphasizes sustainable construction methods through the selection of materials that reflect local traditions and environmental considerations. Rammed earth (Tapia) is utilized for its acoustic and thermal benefits, while rotating panels allow for adjustable sunlight intake. Polycarbonate panels enhance airflow and light penetration, contributing to the adaptability of the living spaces. A dry toilet system is implemented to promote water efficiency, alongside a central courtyard designed to collect rainwater for non-potable uses, reinforcing a commitment to resource management.

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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
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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