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Subterranean Living With Phase Change Materials and Prefabricated Concrete For Sustainable Housing

Subterranean Living With Phase Change Materials and Prefabricated Concrete For Sustainable Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing phase change materials and prefabricated concrete, the design integrates subterranean spaces to create climate-resilient housing that harmonizes with its arid environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes phase change materials for enhanced thermal regulation.
02
Incorporates prefabricated concrete elements for rapid construction.
03
Integrates subterranean spaces to minimize environmental impact.
04
Features a bent A-frame design for structural efficiency and aesthetics.
05
Employs a landscape-responsive layout to enhance natural ventilation.

### Overview

The "Tabula Rasa" project responds to the pressing need for sustainable housing solutions in arid environments, situated in a context that prioritizes climate resilience. The design proposes an underground dwelling concept that aligns with contemporary environmental challenges. By integrating subterranean living spaces with surface structures, the project emphasizes a relationship between habitation and the desert landscape, thereby redefining architectural norms in the region.

### Spatial Configuration and Community Integration

The spatial strategy of "Tabula Rasa" is centered on modularity and adaptability, allowing for a versatile layout that accommodates various family sizes and lifestyles. The design promotes community integration through shared spaces such as parks and courtyards, which encourage social interaction among residents. The architecture emphasizes bioclimatic principles, integrating courtyards and natural ventilation to create comfortable living environments that mitigate the harsh climate effects.

### Material Strategy and Sustainability

A diverse array of materials is utilized to enhance the project's sustainability and energy efficiency. Prefabricated concrete ensures structural integrity and expedient assembly, while 3D-printed fiber cement facilitates intricate designs. The incorporation of phase change materials aids in passive temperature regulation, significantly contributing to energy efficiency. Additionally, smart energy solutions, such as photovoltaic materials in building elements, integrate renewable energy generation, further supporting sustainable living practices. Greywater recycling and integrated greenery are also essential components, fostering biodiversity and promoting environmental stewardship within the community.

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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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