KINGSPAN MICROHOME COMPETITION
Client: Competition Entry – Kingspan Microhome Edition
Location: Prince Albert, Western Cape, South Africa
Architect: Black Sable
Concept: A Subterranean Off-Grid Sanctuary Inspired by Termite Mounds
The Kingspan Microhome Competition challenged architects worldwide to rethink off-grid, modular, and space-efficient living. Black Sable’s entry pushed this even further, embracing the lessons of nature, stripping back the unnecessary, and creating a living sculpture that blurs the boundary between built form and environment.
Though unbuilt, this project stands as a testament to our belief that architecture should not just shelter— but inspire, question, and challenge the way we live.
The Vision
In the remote African Karoo landscape, Black Sable reimagined off-grid living through a microhome that embraces fundamental principles of nature—efficiency, resilience, and symbiosis with the environment. This conceptual design strips life back to its essentials, prioritizing self-sufficiency, natural climate control, and a profound reconnection with the land.
This was not just about designing a small footprint home—it was about crafting a philosophy of living, one that rejects excess, embraces intentional solitude, and fosters a return to slowness in an ever-accelerating world.
The design invites residents to disconnect from technology and rediscover the essentials—water, warmth, food, shelter—without modern conveniences.
The Design
At just 25m², the microhome is compact yet deeply considered, integrating:
A Circular Courtyard Core – Providing natural ventilation, daylight, and a protected outdoor space, reinforcing the inward focus of the design.
A Sculptural Wind-Harnessing Wall – Acting as a functional and aesthetic element, this feature channels airflow through the structure, naturally cooling the home.
Subterranean Living – Partially buried in the earth, the home uses thermal mass to regulate temperature, reducing energy reliance.
Berming & Landscaping – The building is sculpted into the terrain, with surrounding soil stabilizing temperatures and supporting indigenous planting.
Load-Bearing Earthen Walls – Built using rammed soil, adobe, and natural plaster finishes, ensuring sustainability and durability.
Mechanical Heating & Cooking – In place of electricity, the home relies on passive design strategies and low-tech heating systems, reinforcing its off-grid ethos.
This microhome challenges notions of luxury, proving that true sophistication lies in simplicity, resilience, and harmony with the natural world.
Ecological Innovation
Black Sable’s design was rooted in vernacular intelligence—a deep understanding of how nature and ancient building methods can inform modern sustainability.
Rainwater harvesting systems were integrated to provide self-sufficient water management.
A subterranean "earth fridge" system naturally cooled stored food, eliminating the need for powered refrigeration.
Every material choice emphasized circularity, with soil excavated for construction reused in building the home itself.
