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Rammed Earth Walls and Straw Insulation Create a Sustainable Retreat in the Mountains

Authors:
Joel JH Lee, Wenray Wang
Rammed Earth Walls and Straw Insulation Create a Sustainable Retreat in the Mountains

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth walls and utilizing straw insulation, the retreat integrates traditional materials to provide a sustainable shelter for trekkers in a challenging mountainous environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built from locally sourced rammed earth, enhancing thermal regulation.
02
Features a lightweight straw-insulated roof for improved energy efficiency.
03
Incorporates a central fireplace in the communal area for warmth and gathering.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural strength and rapid assembly.
05
Strategically designed skylights provide natural light and ventilation throughout.

### Overview
Located in the Himalayan region, the Hut provides a refuge for trekkers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts, emphasizing comfort and sustainability while withstanding severe environmental conditions. The design integrates modern architectural strategies with a commitment to environmental responsiveness, aiming to create a structure that fosters social interaction and connection with the surrounding landscape.

### Structural Configuration
The architectural design comprises layered structures serving distinct purposes. The external walls, constructed from rammed earth, offer both durability and thermal insulation. Internally, a timber framework enhances the building’s eco-friendliness and allows for efficient construction. The lightweight roof, insulated with straw, maximizes energy efficiency by utilizing local, resource-efficient materials. This layered approach not only enhances structural integrity but also aligns with the Hut's sustainable ethos by minimizing resource consumption while ensuring comfort for occupants.

### Environmental Performance
Key environmental considerations are embedded within the design. Passive solar gain is harnessed through the thermal properties of the rammed earth walls, contributing to stable indoor temperatures throughout the year. Natural ventilation is facilitated by strategically placed skylights and chimney openings, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. Additionally, the main entrance is oriented to shield against harsh winds, promoting thermal regulation and enhancing user comfort. The overall design reflects a commitment to sustainability, prioritizing the use of locally sourced materials and practices that minimize reliance on non-renewable resources.

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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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