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Straw Panel Construction in a Contemporary Maramures Eco House

Authors:
Evelina Ghise, Maria Ispas
Straw Panel Construction in a Contemporary Maramures Eco House
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Constructed with prefabricated straw panels, this eco house integrates traditional Maramures influences with modern energy-efficient features to provide a comfortable living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Architectural inspiration draws from traditional Maramures homes.
02
Prefabricated straw panels enhance structural safety and efficiency.
03
Straw bales serve as an innovative thermal insulation method.
04
The design focuses on optimizing indoor air quality throughout the year.
05
Local materials reinforce community connection and environmental sustainability.

The eco house project showcases a strong emphasis on sustainable living through its well-thought-out design and practical layout. Positioned in an area that reflects a blend of traditional influences, the structure includes essential living spaces like a porch, kitchen, dining room, living room, office, and a bedroom placed at a higher level. The design concept merges elements of classic architecture with modern sustainable practices, advocating for an environmentally friendly lifestyle.

Materials and Sustainability

Prefabricated straw panels are a main feature of the house. These panels have a high compression rate that reduces oxygen inside, helping to prevent fire risks. This property enhances the safety of the building. Wood forms the primary structure, supporting the sustainable focus since it is a carbon-negative material that lowers the environmental impact of the home.

Functional Design Elements

The layout is carefully organized to ensure a good flow between various living areas while protecting privacy in more personal spaces. The indoor environment prioritizes air quality, which adds to comfort throughout different seasons. Using straw bales for insulation is an innovative choice, moving away from conventional methods to improve energy efficiency.

Aesthetic and Cultural Influences

The architectural style draws from the local architecture of Maramures. This connection creates a visual identity that fits well with the surroundings, giving the house a unique character. Employing local materials further reinforces the relationship with the area, adding an authentic touch.

The design features a clear relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces. Large openings help with ventilation and light, improving the overall living environment. Thoughtful details and smooth connections between rooms create a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring both functionality and visual appeal.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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