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3D Printed Concrete and Low-E Glass Creating Sustainable Living Spaces in A Vibrant Community

Author:
Liyang Wang
3D Printed Concrete and Low-E Glass Creating Sustainable Living Spaces in A Vibrant Community

Project in-detail

Utilizing 3D printed concrete and low-E glass, the design weaves contemporary sustainability into its fabric, creating a cohesive community living space that redefines the urban residential experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs 3D printed concrete for complex structural forms.
02
Integrates low-E glass to enhance energy efficiency in a hot climate.
03
Features breathing pockets that improve natural ventilation throughout.
04
Uses indigenous landscaping to promote biodiversity and water conservation.
05
Incorporates vertical circulation elements that enhance accessibility and aesthetics.
The Domestic Mini-City project presents an innovative approach to residential architecture, situated in the vibrant urban context of Dubai. This design exemplifies a fusion of traditional Emirati aesthetics with contemporary architectural practices, creating a living space that is both functional and culturally resonant. It serves as a microcosm of urban life, intended to foster community engagement while addressing the pressing needs of sustainable living in an increasingly dense urban environment.

The project represents a shift in architectural thinking, prioritizing the interconnectedness of spaces and the people who inhabit them. By designing with community in mind, the project encourages social interactions and shared experiences among residents. The layout incorporates communal areas seamlessly intertwined with private living spaces, promoting a balanced lifestyle that values both privacy and community involvement.

Key elements of the design include an emphasis on flexible living arrangements, which allow for individual customization while maintaining functionality. Open-plan areas illustrate this concept well, facilitating movement and interaction. For instance, the integration of kitchens and living rooms creates a natural gathering space, encouraging not just family connections but also informal exchanges among neighbors. The architecture invites a dynamic flow, making it easier for residents to engage with one another.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the Domestic Mini-City project. The design incorporates solar energy technologies, featuring strategically placed solar panels on rooftops that not only generate energy but also provide shade to the living areas. Low-E glass windows are utilized throughout the structure to minimize heat gain, contributing further to energy efficiency. The careful selection of materials, such as 3D printed concrete and local plant species in the landscaping, reinforces the commitment to both environmental responsibility and regional context.

Water management is also a significant consideration in this project. Given Dubai's arid climate, innovative water collection and conservation strategies have been integrated. Rainwater harvesting systems capture and reuse water, reducing reliance on municipal sources and demonstrating a practical approach to resource management.

Unique design strategies are evident in the creation of vibrant outdoor spaces that facilitate social gatherings. These areas serve as extensions of the home's interior, providing opportunities for leisure and community events. The inclusion of vertical circulation elements, designed to connect different levels of the project, enhances the overall experience of moving through the space. These vertical components not only aid functionality but also add a sculptural dimension to the architecture, elevating visual interest.

The Domestic Mini-City is more than just a residence; it is a thoughtfully designed community that addresses the complexities of modern urban living. The project reflects a deep understanding of the cultural landscape and the environmental challenges present in the region. Its careful balance of private and public spaces, alongside sustainable practices, positions it as a forward-thinking model for future residential developments.

For those interested in deepening their understanding of this project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas will provide additional insights into the intricacies and nuances that define the Domestic Mini-City. The architectural design process behind this project showcases a vision for contemporary living that respects cultural heritage while embracing modernity. Interested readers are encouraged to explore these elements further for a comprehensive view of the Domestic Mini-City’s architectural significance.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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