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Thermal Efficiency Through Sustainable Thatch Roof and Bamboo Construction in Compact Living

Author:
Pia Sejpal
Thermal Efficiency Through Sustainable Thatch Roof and Bamboo Construction in Compact Living

Project in-detail

With a thatched roof and innovative bamboo construction, the design enhances thermal efficiency while maximizing livable space in a compact unit intended for sustainable habitation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a thatched roof for enhanced thermal performance and natural ventilation.
02
Incorporates locally sourced bamboo as a lightweight structural element.
03
Features slanted walls to promote airflow and maximize natural light.
04
Emphasizes traditional craftsmanship through detailed joinery techniques.
05
Optimizes a compact layout for flexible living within a 24-square-meter footprint.

### Project Overview
Madhuli occupies a compact 24-square-meter site in Kutch, India, focusing on the principles of sustainable living through the employment of traditional building techniques and materials. The design aims to maximize spatial efficiency while intertwining modern functionality with the regional architectural heritage. This approach supports various lifestyles and emphasizes the significance of local culture in contemporary architecture.

### Spatial Organization
The interior layout prioritizes utility and comfort, featuring distinct areas conducive to everyday living. The **Living Area** serves as a multifunctional space, enhanced with natural light and ventilation via well-placed openings. The **Kitchenette** is designed to facilitate efficient cooking and storage, essential for small living spaces. The **Bedroom** provides privacy and comfort, executed with a modest scale that accommodates essential furnishings. Additionally, the **Bathroom** is strategically positioned to optimize plumbing infrastructure and space utilization, contributing to the overall efficiency of the layout.

### Materiality
The material selection for Madhuli reflects a commitment to sustainability and local craftsmanship. **Bricks** are the primary structural element, offering durability and effective thermal insulation, ensuring comfortable indoor conditions year-round. **Bamboo**, incorporated as a secondary material, adds aesthetic value and lightweight properties that complement the building's structural integrity. The **Thatch** roofing not only preserves traditional design features but also enhances thermal comfort and facilitates airflow, thus promoting natural ventilation. This thoughtful choice of materials aligns with the architectural narrative that honors local traditions while addressing environmental concerns.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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