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Rammed Earth Walls Enclosed by Biophilic Courtyards in a Flexible Residential Space

Author:
Giacomo Caputo
Rammed Earth Walls Enclosed by Biophilic Courtyards in a Flexible Residential Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth walls and enhanced by biophilic courtyards, the flexible residential solution adapts to varying lifestyle needs while promoting sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced rammed earth for thermal mass and insulation.
02
Incorporates customizable modular layouts to suit individual lifestyle needs.
03
Features biophilic courtyards to enhance natural light and promote well-being.
04
Utilizes prefabricated timber elements for rapid assembly and reduced waste.
05
Includes traditional mashrabiya for effective ventilation and privacy.

### Project Overview
Located within a culturally rich environment, the proposed housing solution focuses on versatility and adaptability. Termed the "In-Between House," it offers a modular design that allows users to select combinations of residential functions according to their evolving needs. The integration of both traditional architectural elements and modern sustainable practices demonstrates a response to the geographical context while enhancing community engagement.

#### Modular Functionality
The architectural design enables the assembly of distinct spatial modules for living, working, and leisure activities. Users have the flexibility to incorporate a variety of spaces, including bedrooms, offices, kitchens, and patios, fostering personal expression in residential living. The layout encourages user participation in defining their living environment, resulting in a customized experience that reflects individual lifestyles.

#### Materiality and Sustainability
The structure employs a blend of traditional and contemporary materials to achieve efficiency and environmental sustainability. Key components include rammed earth walls, which provide thermal mass and natural insulation, and prefabricated wooden structures, which reduce construction time and ecological impact. Additionally, features such as rainwater collection systems and integrated solar panels enhance self-sufficiency while promoting environmentally conscious design. The strategic use of mashrabiya adds to the aesthetic quality while improving natural ventilation and privacy.

The architectural approach encapsulates cultural resonance, utilizing familiar forms and materials to strengthen connections to the local context. The building's shape and configuration cultivate a dynamic relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, offering opportunities for social interaction alongside private retreats. Through innovative spatial logic and a commitment to sustainability, the design sets a precedent for future residential developments aimed at fostering community ties and environmental stewardship.

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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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