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Rammed Earth Walls Enhance Thermal Performance In Sustainable Residential Design

Authors:
Erika Zapata Estupinan Hirschmann, Jose Ignacio Rubio Zapata
Rammed Earth Walls Enhance Thermal Performance In Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Employing rammed earth for thermal regulation and integrating outdoor landscapes, the design creates a sustainable residence that harmonizes with its environment while prioritizing comfort and adaptability for its inhabitants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Uses rammed earth for enhanced thermal mass and sustainable construction.
02
Incorporates modular components for future adaptability and expansion.
03
Features a landscape-integrated design promoting local biodiversity.
04
Utilizes passive cooling techniques through strategic ventilation and shading.
05
Includes extensive outdoor terraces as functional extensions of living spaces.

### Overview

Located in Dubai, the Rooted House integrates architecture with the natural environment, addressing the region's extreme climatic conditions through innovative design solutions. The intent of the project is to establish a sustainable living space that emphasizes the connection between built structures and ecological systems, using local materials and passive cooling strategies. The design not only responds to the immediate environmental challenges but also proposes flexible living arrangements to meet the evolving needs of its inhabitants.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The Rooted House employs a range of local and sustainable materials that enhance both durability and environmental compatibility. Key elements include rammed earth walls, which provide thermal mass while reducing heat absorption, and wood, which contributes to the home's aesthetic warmth. Concrete is judiciously used to ensure structural stability while aligning with eco-friendly practices. Recycled materials are chosen for interior finishes, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. Outdoor materials such as gravel and weather-resistant coatings facilitate drainage and protect surfaces from climatic wear, highlighting the project's ecological consciousness.

### Climate Adaptability

The design of the Rooted House demonstrates a strong response to Dubai's climatic conditions. Thermal regulation is achieved through the mass of rammed earth, which maintains cooler indoor temperatures. Cross-ventilation strategies enhance airflow, minimizing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. The layout is optimized for solar orientation, employing shading devices that also serve as aesthetic features. The house is designed to be off-grid, with solar panels intended to harness renewable energy and mitigate ecological impact, reflecting a comprehensive approach to energy efficiency and sustainability.

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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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