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Recycled Marble Residue and Elevated Timber Structures in Sustainable Worker Housing

Authors:
Ovidiu-alexandru Dobre, Ioana bianca Voican, Sebastian alexandru Boldea, Roberta maria Teodorescu
Recycled Marble Residue and Elevated Timber Structures in Sustainable Worker Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing recycled marble residue and an elevated timber framework, the design provides sustainable housing solutions for workers in Romania's marble quarrying industry.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled marble residue in construction to reduce waste.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
04
Elevated design allows natural water drainage and protects the site.
05
Includes communal spaces tailored for worker interaction and community building.

The Marble Quarry Housing Project is situated in Ruschita, Romania, an area noted for its rich marble deposits, which hold significant cultural and economic value. This architectural project aims to provide functional housing for workers engaged in local quarrying activities. The design emphasizes sustainability, community, and integration with the surrounding landscape, responding effectively to environmental and social needs.

The layout consists of modular housing units grouped into clusters, fostering a sense of community among residents while allowing flexible configurations for future adaptation. Elevated on stilts, these units minimize site disturbance and ensure efficient water drainage. The architectural form features angled roofs that reflect the region's mountainous topography.

Sustainability is a fundamental aspect of the design. Local materials are utilized extensively, particularly concrete, wood, metal, and glass. Recycled marble residue, a byproduct of quarrying, is repurposed in the construction process, highlighting economic efficiency and environmental responsibility. The project incorporates solar panels on the roofs, emphasizing renewable energy use. Natural ventilation and ample natural light are achieved through strategically placed openings and glazing, further reducing energy dependency.

Architectural Integration with Environment
The Marble Quarry Housing Project emphasizes its connection with the landscape. The design envelopes the terrain's natural contours, ensuring minimal disruption to the existing ecosystem. The use of stilted construction and elevated platforms maintains the natural water flow and allows the site to remain accessible in various weather conditions. The thoughtful elevation also facilitates views of the surrounding landscape, enhancing the quality of life for the residents.

Unique design features include communal spaces integrated within each housing cluster, encouraging social interaction among workers. These spaces are designed to support various activities, contributing to a strong sense of community amidst the working environment. Coupled with the functional living spaces, these areas reflect a comprehensive understanding of the users' needs.

Sustainable Construction Techniques and Materials
The project embodies a dedication to environmentally responsible practices through the application of sustainable construction methods. The innovative use of local timber, which provides warmth and comfort, alongside durable concrete and metal for structural integrity, demonstrates an efficient approach to material selection. Architectural sections illustrate the intricacies of the construction, showcasing how various elements work together to create a cohesive living environment.

The integration of rainwater collection systems further highlights the project’s commitment to sustainability. These systems provide a reliable water source, promoting self-sufficiency while minimizing environmental impact. The design of the housing units prioritizes both functionality and efficiency, ensuring that resources are utilized responsibly throughout the living space.

The Marble Quarry Housing Project stands as a noteworthy example of effective architectural practice that addresses the practical and social requirements of its occupants. To explore the full architectural plans, sections, and other design elements in detail, interested readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project presentation for comprehensive insights into its various components and innovative solutions.

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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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