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Tambour Construction With Canvas Walls for Resilient Nomadic Living

Authors:
Bernadette Balatbat, Esther Liem, Harita Tahir
Tambour Construction With Canvas Walls for Resilient Nomadic Living

Project in-detail

With a tambour construction and insulated canvas walls, the design uniquely accommodates the challenges of harsh climates while promoting communal living in a flexible residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with tambour technology for easy assembly and mobility.
02
Insulated canvas walls enhance thermal efficiency in extreme weather.
03
Design incorporates traditional Mongolian architectural elements with modern materials.
04
Flexible layout promotes social interaction while providing private spaces.
05
Utilizes locally sourced materials to support regional economies.
The Nomadic Home project presents an adaptive architectural response to the environmental and social challenges faced by urban dwellers in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. This design integrates traditional Mongolian cultural elements with modern building techniques, creating a functional living space that caters to the needs of its occupants while promoting sustainability. The project takes inspiration from the traditional yurt (ger) and restructures its form into a contemporary residence that facilitates community interaction and connection to the outdoors.

Sustainability and adaptability are at the core of this project. The Nomadic Home employs locally sourced materials such as wood, gypsum board, and canvas, reflecting a commitment to using sustainable resources while minimizing environmental impact. The design incorporates efficient insulation and passive solar strategies, optimizing energy use and enhancing occupant comfort in a region known for its harsh climate. By focusing on local materiality and construction practices, the project not only honors Mongolian architectural heritage but also supports local economies.

Unique Design Approaches in the Nomadic Home Project

The Nomadic Home distinguishes itself through its flexible layout and mobilization capabilities. The introduction of tambour technology allows for components of the structure to be easily assembled or disassembled, enabling a lifestyle that can pivot in response to changing needs. This approach aligns well with the nomadic traditions of Mongolia, providing an architectural solution capable of evolving alongside its inhabitants.

Moreover, the design promotes community interaction by creating open, interconnected spaces. The ground floor features expansive living areas that integrate the kitchen with communal spaces, fostering social engagement. The inclusion of a porch extends the livable area into the natural environment, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living.

Exploration of Architectural Details

The architectural plans and sections of the Nomadic Home reveal thoughtful spatial organization and structural integrity. The two-level design accommodates private and communal spaces, ensuring that residents have areas for both shared experiences and individual retreat. The roof structure is engineered to manage water drainage and snow loads, which is critical in the context of Mongolia's severe winters.

Key architectural elements include the integration of natural light through strategically placed windows, enhancing the sense of openness and connection to the surroundings. Additionally, the use of materials like gypsum board for internal walls provides flexibility for interior configurations, allowing residents to adapt their living space to suit their changing lifestyles.

This project stands as a meaningful exploration of how contemporary architecture can respond to cultural heritage while meeting modern functional demands. For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design strategies employed in the Nomadic Home, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its architectural concepts and design intentions.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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