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3D Printed Concrete Structure with Solar Chimney and Biophilic Design Elements

Author:
Hamed Mohammed A Alqahtani
3D Printed Concrete Structure with Solar Chimney and Biophilic Design Elements

Project in-detail

Incorporating a solar chimney and 3D printed concrete, the design showcases biophilic elements and recycled materials to create a sustainable residential environment in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates 3D printed concrete to reduce construction waste.
02
Features a solar chimney for enhanced natural ventilation.
03
Integrates traditional mashrabiya for shading and privacy.
04
Includes a greywater recycling system to optimize water usage.
05
Utilizes recycled wood from local palm trees for sustainable finishes.

**Overview**

Located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the Green Printed Home represents a contemporary interpretation of sustainable living aligned with the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030. Integrating advanced 3D printing technology with traditional architectural elements, the design emphasizes both environmental responsibility and cultural heritage, fulfilling contemporary construction standards while preserving the historical significance of Emirati architecture.

**Material and Design Strategy**

The project employs a combination of innovative and traditional materials selected for their sustainability and functional capabilities. Notable materials include 3D printed concrete, which minimizes waste during construction, and double-glazed windows that enhance thermal insulation. A solar panel system is installed to leverage renewable energy, while recycled wood panels from palm trees provide both aesthetic and functional benefits. The design also features metallic cladding for durability and green roof systems to improve insulation and introduce natural greenery into the urban landscape.

Central to the layout is a courtyard that promotes natural ventilation and light, creating an improved living environment. The integration of a solar chimney facilitates passive cooling, while traditional architectural features such as maqsura and mashrabiya offer shading and privacy while reducing heat gain. The functional layout includes communal spaces on the ground floor, private areas on intermediate levels, and utility spaces in the basement, ensuring efficient organization and a clutter-free living experience.

**Sustainability Initiatives**

The sustainability framework prioritizes energy efficiency and resource conservation through various strategies. A grey water recycling system significantly reduces water consumption, while natural cooling techniques enhance interior comfort without mechanical assistance. The flexible facade allows residents to adjust shading based on sunlight exposure, optimizing both comfort and ventilation. The landscaping incorporates native flora, supporting local biodiversity and reducing the ecological footprint.

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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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