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Wind-Driven Energy and Cob Construction in a Coastal Microhome

Authors:
Nikolaos Kalampalikis, Alkmini Papaioannou, Evangelia Charalampidou, George Lakirdakidis
Wind-Driven Energy and Cob Construction in a Coastal Microhome

Project in-detail

Utilizing cob construction and integrated wind energy systems, the design creates an efficient microhome that addresses the housing demands of Greece's tourist-heavy islands.
5 key facts about this project
01
Main structural element is a robust stone wall supporting five wind energy turbines.
02
Exterior incorporates a water collection system connected to limestone filtration for household use.
03
Living spaces face south to maximize natural light and passive heating.
04
Panels in the main opening can transform into a pergola for shade and airflow.
05
Design elevates private areas to accommodate utility systems below, optimizing space efficiency.

The Cob House is located in Greece and aims to respond to the pressing housing issues caused by tourism in islands such as Mykonos and Santorini. This microhome design caters to the local lifestyle while promoting sustainability. With its smooth white curves, the house harmonizes with traditional Greek architecture and provides functional living spaces essential for residents and seasonal visitors.

Architecture Concept
The Cob House blends local architectural styles with contemporary sustainable practices. A strong stone wall serves as the main structure, supporting the building and housing five wind engines for renewable energy. This innovative approach reduces reliance on traditional energy sources and emphasizes the importance of energy efficiency.

Orientation and Spatial Configuration
Careful attention is paid to orientation and layout. The main opening faces south, allowing sunlight to warm the interior during the colder months. Living areas are placed in the southeast to capture maximum light, while private spaces, including sleeping quarters, are located to the north for added privacy. Raising the bathrooms and sleeping areas by half a meter creates space below for electrical and plumbing systems, maximizing the efficient use of space.

Adaptability and Functionality
A key feature of the design is the three-part main opening. When opened, these panels form a pergola that encourages airflow and provides shade. This adaptability keeps the home comfortable in varying weather conditions and connects outdoor and indoor living areas. Ergonomic furniture extends the usable space to the exterior, enhancing the overall living experience.

Materiality and Sustainability
Cob is the primary building material for The Cob House, consisting of a mixture of clay, sand, and straw. This traditional construction technique allows for creative design, with curved shapes that are both attractive and structurally durable. Cob also helps regulate moisture, creating a more stable indoor climate. The exterior is finished with mortar and lime paint, which improves energy efficiency by reflecting sunlight and keeping the interior cooler.

Attention to detail continues with the roof, which acts as a water collector linked to a limestone filtration system. This design illustrates a commitment to sustainable resource management while addressing the practical needs of its occupants. The Cob House successfully marries tradition and modernity, providing a relevant housing solution in a rapidly changing environment.

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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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