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Sustainable Living Through Local Stone And Precast Concrete Beams In A Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Design

Authors:
Claudio Morales, Marisol Dorantes Castro
Sustainable Living Through Local Stone And Precast Concrete Beams In A Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing local stone and precast concrete beams, the design fosters a strong connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces, culminating in a residence that prioritizes sustainability and functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Precast concrete beams provide rapid assembly while maintaining structural integrity.
02
Local stone walls enhance thermal insulation and connect the design to its surroundings.
03
Service cells manage water purification and energy storage effectively within the structure.
04
Landscaped patios improve natural ventilation and create cohesive indoor-outdoor spaces.
05
Large glass facades maximize daylight, contributing to energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

### Project Overview
Located in a region optimized for natural light and ventilation, the residential design prioritizes ecological sustainability and open space integration. The configuration fosters connectivity among various living areas, aiming to create a cohesive environment that balances functionality with aesthetic appeal. The design utilizes large landscaped patios to promote privacy while enhancing the flow of light and air throughout the dwelling.

### Spatial Strategy
The architectural layout is meticulously planned to support modern lifestyles that require flexibility and interaction.
- **Ground Floor:** Features a welcoming entrance leading into an expansive living area that adjoins the dining space. The open kitchen connects directly with shared areas, facilitating communal cooking and dining experiences. The inclusion of multiple patios—such as those designated for service, planting, and recreation—serves as vital links to the outdoors.
- **First Floor:** Comprises private sleeping quarters, including a master suite and additional bedrooms that prioritize comfort. Shared zones such as an open office and playroom encourage productivity and leisure, promoting family connectivity.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and local sourcing, emphasizing environmentally responsible design practices.
- **Primary Materials:** Precast ecological concrete beams form the structural foundation, allowing for efficient assembly and minimal waste generation. Local stone walls enhance insulation properties while contributing to the visual aesthetic. Solar panels are integrated into the structure, reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. Sandstone is employed for its durability and aesthetic warmth, while glass facades maximize daylight and create a visual link between interior and exterior spaces.

The design incorporates innovative features, such as a patio system that actively supports natural ventilation and integrates cultivation areas, and service cells that manage water systems efficiently. A cross-ventilation strategy is implemented to optimize thermal comfort and minimize energy consumption throughout the year.

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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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