Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Thermal Rammed Earth Residence Embracing Light and Shadow

Authors:
Bang giang Doan, Hoang Lam Bui, Vinh Hung Nguyen
Thermal Rammed Earth Residence Embracing Light and Shadow

Project in-detail

The integration of thermal rammed earth along with a careful orchestration of light and shadow creates a dynamic living environment that highlights human experience in a residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes thermal rammed earth for optimal thermal performance.
02
Features two symmetrical voids designed for daylight and nighttime experiences.
03
Incorporates a central courtyard to enhance spatial flow and interaction.
04
Bedroom includes a large opening to connect with the night sky.
05
Carefully orchestrated light transitions throughout the interior spaces.

The design integrates harmoniously with its surroundings, presenting a structure that embraces the interplay of light and shadows. Located within a landscape that highlights this duality, the building serves as a home while exploring the depths of human experience. The central concept revolves around two symmetrical voids known as "day" and "night," which are positioned against a long thermal rammed earth wall. This framework promotes a smooth flow between inside and outside spaces, encouraging a rich interaction with various light conditions.

Conceptual Framework

At the heart of the design is a balance between light and darkness, inviting users to appreciate both elements. The elongated thermal rammed earth wall acts as a focal point, establishing a visual connection between the voids. This setup encourages inhabitants to navigate through the house, reminding them of the cycles of life and how perception of light is enhanced through contrast with darkness.

Spatial Organization

Inside, the layout is thoughtfully arranged around a central courtyard, promoting movement and connection between different areas. The journey begins in the work space and living room, progresses through the kitchen and dining room, and intentionally sidesteps the bathroom, allowing for a more open flow. This sequence reflects everyday life and cultivates a sense of continuity throughout the spaces.

Light and Atmosphere

Vertical movement within the design reveals an engaging play of light and shadow. As occupants descend into the structure, the atmosphere changes, enriching their experience. The bedroom features a large opening to the night sky, which brings in soft moonlight and stars. This connection to the celestial adds a peaceful quality to the space, fostering relaxation and quiet reflection.

Materiality and Sustainability

Employing thermal rammed earth as a primary material supports both structural stability and energy efficiency. This choice aligns with sustainable practices, blending the building with its landscape while promoting indoor comfort. The material also assists in regulating temperature throughout the interior, underscoring a commitment to environmental considerations.

Over the central courtyard, a carefully designed skylight allows sunlight to filter down, creating a beautiful play of light patterns across the interior spaces throughout the day.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy