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Reclaimed Stone and Corrugated Metal Shed Housing Integrated Tea Production and Community Spaces

Authors:
Alejandro sebastian Vasavilbaso covarrubias, Mariana Martínez gamboa, Jimena Galindo huchim, Karen Vargas Vela
Reclaimed Stone and Corrugated Metal Shed Housing Integrated Tea Production and Community Spaces

Project in-detail

Constructed with reclaimed stone and corrugated metal, the design merges traditional agricultural forms with contemporary aesthetics to create a functional space for tea production and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using reclaimed stone from the original barn, enhancing ecological sustainability.
02
Incorporates a central patio that fosters community interaction and social gatherings.
03
Utilizes gravity-driven systems in the packaging area for operational efficiency.
04
Designed with high ceilings to optimize airflow in the tea drying process.
05
Features extensive glazing to maximize natural light and ventilation throughout the space.
The Tea Barn project is a contemporary reinterpretation of a traditional barn, strategically located in a rural area suitable for tea cultivation and processing. This architectural design serves dual functions: it operates as a workshop dedicated to tea production while simultaneously offering accommodation as a guesthouse. By renovating an existing barn structure, the project reflects an ethos of sustainability through adaptive reuse and thoughtful material selection.

The project consists of distinct, interrelated components that enhance its functional efficiency. Central to the design is a large workshop space that includes dedicated areas for drying, tasting, and packaging tea. The drying area features a high ceiling to allow proper airflow, critical for the tea's processing. Adjacent to this, the tasting area is designed to provide an optimal sensory experience for tea enthusiasts. The packaging section is efficiently organized, incorporating gravity-driven systems for streamlined operations.

The guesthouse comprises multiple bedrooms that accommodate visitors, prioritizing comfort and intimacy. An inviting vertical library and living area serve as a central hub for social interaction among guests. This spatial configuration promotes a balance between private and communal experiences, fostering a sense of community.

Environmental sustainability is a cornerstone of the Tea Barn project. The architecture employs a rich material palette comprising corrugated metal sheets for roofing and cladding, locally sourced wood for interior warmth, and reclaimed stone from the original barn structure. This material selection not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the design but also supports ecological principles by minimizing waste.

One of the unique aspects of the Tea Barn project is its emphasis on bioclimatic design. The extensive use of glazing in strategically placed openings maximizes natural light and ventilation, reducing the need for artificial lighting and climate control. This approach enhances energy efficiency while ensuring that the building harmonizes with its surroundings. The integration of outdoor spaces within the central patio further promotes interactions among users, creating a collaborative atmosphere conducive to both work and leisure.

The Tea Barn project exemplifies modern architectural practices while addressing community needs and environmental challenges. To further explore the specifics of this design, readers are encouraged to examine the architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural designs associated with the project. Delving into these elements will provide deeper insights into the innovative ideas that underpin the Tea Barn.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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