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Rammed Earth Walls Support Central Nucleus in Sustainable Living Space

Authors:
Francisco Agudelo, Santiago Berruti, Joaquín Quintana
Rammed Earth Walls Support Central Nucleus in Sustainable Living Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth walls, this design integrates a central nucleus that facilitates efficient air circulation and sunlight capture, creating a sustainable living space with distinct zones for work and rest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls enhance thermal mass and energy efficiency.
02
The central nucleus design separates social and private areas.
03
Orientation of walls maximizes natural light and passive heating.
04
High-efficiency fireplace improves comfort and air quality.
05
Rainwater collection system supports sustainable resource use.

The design centers around a free plan concept with a central nucleus that plays a crucial role in meeting the functional needs of a home. Located in an environment that values sustainable living, the layout offers two spacious zones that maintain privacy and usability for various activities. This thoughtful organization avoids the need for extra walls, allowing for a more open and inviting atmosphere.

Central Nucleus

The nucleus serves two primary functions. One side is dedicated to a kitchen that also acts as a dining area and workspace. The other side features a high-efficiency fireplace, which caters to the living room and bedroom. This arrangement maximizes the use of space while still allowing for social interaction among residents, making daily life more comfortable.

Air Circulation and Comfort

Attention to air circulation significantly contributes to the design's comfort. The nucleus is intentionally lower than the adjoining ceiling, creating a flow of fresh air throughout the home and improving fireplace performance. This detail shows a clear understanding of thermal dynamics, enhancing energy efficiency and overall livability.

Material Use

Prefabricated components and locally sourced earth form the foundation of this project. The use of rammed earth gives structural strength to areas designated for living and working. Walls made from rammed earth are carefully positioned to catch sunlight, which helps to warm the space naturally while maximizing daylight exposure.

Sustainable Features

The design incorporates a pre-fabricated cover that holds solar panels and includes a rainwater collection system. Such features emphasize a commitment to sustainability and efficient resource management. All walls connect securely to the foundation, which not only ensures stability but also contributes to the overall durability of the building.

The design ultimately reflects a practical approach to living. Every feature is carefully selected to enhance the experience of the residents, creating an environment that supports both functionality and a connection to the surrounding landscape.

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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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