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Reclaimed Rubble and Clay Structures Creating Sustainable Housing Solutions

Authors:
Aleksandra Dominika Kozłowska, Krzysztof Andrzej Kobiela
Reclaimed Rubble and Clay Structures Creating Sustainable Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced rubble and clay, the design integrates recycled materials to create adaptable housing solutions that address the needs of displaced communities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced rubble and clay for structural integrity.
02
Incorporates glass bottles into walls to enhance natural lighting.
03
Features a community-centered layout promoting social interaction.
04
Employs passive cooling techniques to minimize energy reliance.
05
Integrates a green roof system to support local biodiversity.

### Overview

The Rubble House project is situated in an urban area impacted by conflict and natural disasters. It aims to address the pressing housing needs of displaced populations by integrating modern architectural approaches with locally sourced materials. The initiative focuses on resilience and sustainability, advocating for community rebuilding through a unique living space that fosters a sense of identity and belonging.

### Material-Driven Design

This project emphasizes the use of recycled materials, specifically rubble, clay, and adobe, which are abundant in post-conflict settings. The architectural design incorporates glass bottles within the walls to enhance natural light absorption and improve thermal insulation. Additionally, the application of Ancient Egyptian blue pigment on the exterior serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, as it reflects solar radiation and contributes to interior cooling. The overall structure features organic, fluid forms that allow for effective wind pressure dissipation and efficient water management, reflecting a careful response to the local environment.

### Sustainable Living Practices

Sustainability is a core aspect of the design, which incorporates various features to promote self-sufficiency. Passive cooling strategies are achieved through sloped roofs that facilitate ventilation. The inclusion of a rainwater harvesting system, along with solar panels and wind turbines, underscores a commitment to energy independence. Furthermore, the innovative green roof enhances insulation while supporting biodiversity and mitigating urban heat. The layout of the interior promotes multifunctionality and communal use, fostering interaction among residents and encouraging a collaborative atmosphere.

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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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