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Thatch Roofing and Straw Insulation in Elevated Community Cabins

Authors:
Alina Kalacharova, Polina Belets, Arsen Gabrielyan, Ekaterina Tretyakova
Thatch Roofing and Straw Insulation in Elevated Community Cabins

Project in-detail

Utilizing thatch roofing and straw insulation, the elevated cabins create a sustainable communal living environment that fosters interaction while minimizing environmental impact.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes traditional thatch roofing for thermal efficiency and natural aesthetics.
02
Elevated on stilts to preserve natural drainage and minimize land disturbance.
03
Incorporates straw insulation, enhancing sustainability and reducing energy consumption.
04
Features flexible outdoor spaces that adapt to seasonal changes for community use.
05
Employs recycled aluminum for structural elements, promoting resource conservation.
The architectural project THATCH integrates sustainable design with a focus on communal living, emphasizing a connection to the natural environment. Set in a serene landscape, the project features various cabins that serve dual purposes, merging private and public functions. The design employs traditional materials and contemporary techniques to create spaces that are both functional and invite social interaction.

Community and Functionality
At the core of THATCH is the concept of gathering. The project's layout incorporates multiple communal areas alongside private cabins, facilitating interaction among occupants. Each cabin is designed for adaptability, serving functions such as dining and leisure, while outdoor spaces like vegetable gardens and BBQ areas encourage outdoor activities. The design prioritizes communal engagement, offering amenities that are accessible to all residents and visitors.

Unique Design Elements
One of the most distinguishing features of THATCH is the traditional thatch roofing, which enhances insulation and connects the structures to historical building practices. The cabins, elevated on stilts, reduce the impact on the surrounding landscape, allowing rainwater to flow naturally, thus promoting environmental harmony. The use of sustainable materials, such as straw for insulation, oriented strand board for structural elements, and recycled aluminum, reflects a commitment to ecological construction and minimizes the project's carbon footprint.

Integration of Sustainable Technologies
In addition to its thoughtful material selection, THATCH incorporates modern renewable technologies for energy efficiency. The buildings are equipped with systems that optimize heating and lighting, ensuring alignment with contemporary energy standards. Moreover, flexible outdoor structures can adapt to seasonal changes, reinforcing the design's responsiveness to its environment.

For a more in-depth understanding of THATCH, including architectural plans, sections, and design specifics, explore the project presentation to gain further insights into its structure and philosophy. By examining the architectural details, one can appreciate the thoughtful design approaches that define this project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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