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Thermal Mass and Natural Ventilation in a Rammed Earth Home Design

Authors:
Elena Ogrizovic, Nikolina Divic, Vladana Rajkov, Vladimir Nedeljković
Thermal Mass and Natural Ventilation in a Rammed Earth Home Design

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth and complemented by natural ventilation strategies, this dwelling maximizes environmental synergy while providing a functional living space in a challenging desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth construction for thermal mass and durability.
02
Features a central courtyard designed for communal interaction and natural cooling.
03
Employs strategically placed overhangs to optimize sunlight and reduce heat gain.
04
Integrates water features that enhance cooling and connect residents to the environment.
05
Incorporates a bioclimatic design approach to maximize energy efficiency and comfort.

## Project Overview

**Project Name:** Terra Lumina
**Location:** Arizona, USA

Terra Lumina is designed to respond to the climatic and geographical conditions of Arizona, characterized by intense sunlight and fluctuating temperatures. The project integrates functional design elements with sustainable practices, aiming to enhance occupant comfort while reducing environmental impact. The layout thoughtfully aligns with the sun's trajectory, optimizing the use of natural light throughout the day.

### Spatial Strategy and Organization

The design features a central courtyard that serves as the core of the residence, surrounded by various functional spaces. This courtyard promotes communal interaction and facilitates natural ventilation, while expansive views from living and dining areas invite the landscape indoors. Private spaces, including bedrooms and bathrooms, are strategically positioned to ensure privacy without sacrificing access to natural light and airflow. The incorporation of cylindrical forms allows for fluid transitions between spaces, enhancing the overall spatial experience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Terra Lumina employs a range of materials that emphasize its connection to the local environment and its commitment to sustainability. Key materials include rammed earth, which provides thermal mass for temperature regulation, and wooden beams, which add structural integrity and warmth. Natural stone is utilized in seating and food preparation areas, reinforcing the relationship between occupants and the surrounding landscape. The project also incorporates innovative features such as reflecting pools that contribute to environmental comfort and a dynamic lighting system that adjusts to varying daylight conditions, enhancing energy efficiency and occupant well-being.

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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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