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Sandstone Shelters Enhanced by Bacillus Pasteurii in Desert Living Spaces

Authors:
Ben Lee, Ruta Benetyte, Freddy Browne, Daven Masri
Sandstone Shelters Enhanced by Bacillus Pasteurii in Desert Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing Bacillus pasteurii to transform local sand into durable sandstone shelters, the design creates eco-lodges that effortlessly blend into the desert landscape while providing guests with immersive living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Bacillus pasteurii for transforming sand into solid sandstone structures.
02
Designed to adapt to shifting dune topography for minimal environmental impact.
03
Includes features for grey water recycling and waste treatment systems.
04
Incorporates private pools and shaded terraces for enhanced guest comfort.
05
Allows for modular relocation or repurposing of eco-lodges as needed.

The design is located in the dune landscapes of a desert, aiming to create living spaces that are integrated with nature. The project emphasizes sustainable construction practices by using local materials and biological processes. The goal is to build structures that respect the environment and connect people to the desert landscape.

Construction Methodology
Sand serves as the main building material, combined with a mixture that includes yeast, urea, calcium chloride, water, and *Bacillus pasteurii*. This combination allows the loose sand to become solid and suitable for construction. By using natural materials and incorporating living organisms into the process, the design demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability.

Pod Design
Living pods are designed to fit the shape of the sand dunes, creating a relationship between the structures and their surroundings. Each pod features a straightforward layout that offers wide views of the desert and local wildlife. There are different types of pods, including more spacious options for guests, which include amenities like private pools and shaded terraces. These elements enhance comfort while encouraging relaxation in the natural environment.

Sustainability Measures
Sustainability is central to the design, with an emphasis on modular construction. This approach allows the structures to be easily moved or repurposed when no longer needed, minimizing their impact on the landscape. Features such as systems for recycling grey water and treating waste also contribute to a lower environmental footprint.

Environmental Integration
The design includes strategies for managing the relationship between buildings and the desert climate. Natural airflow is carefully considered, with designs that help regulate interior temperatures. By focusing on ventilation and the use of sunlight, the architecture responds thoughtfully to the challenges posed by the environment. This result is a more comfortable living space that aligns with the natural world.

The open spaces framed by the organic forms invite people to take in the beauty of the desert. Each structure serves as a reminder of nature’s rhythms, allowing occupants to appreciate the landscape and its ever-changing aspects.

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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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