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Reclaimed Bricks and Double Walls Create Sustainable Community Living

Author:
Hugo Hardy
Reclaimed Bricks and Double Walls Create Sustainable Community Living

Project in-detail

Reclaimed bricks and double walls enhance thermal performance while fostering community in a series of semi-detached duplex units situated within the scenic northern valley of Umbria.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reused bricks from deconstructed buildings are integrated into the new design.
02
Common areas include a wine tasting space to promote community engagement.
03
Units feature roof terraces that enhance outdoor living experiences.
04
Double walls create effective thermal insulation and energy efficiency.
05
Natural swimming pools serve as focal points for rainwater management.

The setting in the northern valley of Umbria provides a picturesque backdrop for a new residential development. Positioned along a northeast-southwest axis, the design prioritizes a connection to the surrounding landscape while responding to the needs of its community. The overall aim focuses on sustainability and the reuse of building materials, specifically bricks salvaged from existing structures. This approach serves to honor local architectural heritage while fostering an environmentally responsible living space.

Design Concept

The project incorporates reused bricks extensively, linking the new structures closely to the history of the region. The walls are constructed with double bricks, which enhance thermal insulation and help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. An air gap between these walls improves the energy efficiency of the units. Hollow bricks are used in the structural elements, reducing material use without compromising strength and stability.

Spatial Organization

Each dwelling is designed to maximize exposure to natural light and airflow, with significant attention given to orientation. The units are arranged to receive sunlight from the south, promoting an overall bright and inviting atmosphere. The layout includes a two-bay system, where each unit has direct access to outdoor spaces, encouraging a relationship with nature. Roof terraces allow residents to enjoy the view of the valley while adding another layer of usable outdoor space.

Community Spaces

Common areas are thoughtfully integrated into the design, supporting interaction among residents. A common building contains a wine tasting area and is positioned to create a welcoming environment. It is oriented to attract views of the valley, making it a focal point for gatherings. This layout fosters a sense of community, encouraging residents to engage in shared activities within a connected environment.

Structural Details

The construction emphasizes appropriate material choices to ensure durability and function. Timber joists support the flooring system, allowing for effective distribution of weight while keeping the structure light. The roofing system combines OSB panels and thermal insulation, which aim for effective energy management. Attention to these details reflects a commitment to modern building practices that also respect the area's architectural traditions.

Water features are incorporated thoughtfully into the layout, including natural swimming pools that serve as focal points within common areas. These pools not only enhance the landscape but also play a role in rainwater management systems, adding both functional and aesthetic value to the design.

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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

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