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3D Printed Courtyard Home Utilizing Natural Materials for Passive Climate Control

Authors:
Georges Kachaamy, Somaia Salem Abdelkreem Haggag, Amna Hassan Ali Taleb Bin Shahdoor, Dana Zaidoun Faleh Otoom
3D Printed Courtyard Home Utilizing Natural Materials for Passive Climate Control

Project in-detail

Utilizing advanced 3D printing technology, this residence integrates a central courtyard with natural ventilation elements and sustainable materials to create a comfortable living environment in Dubai's challenging climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printed concrete for efficient and precise construction.
02
Features a central courtyard that enhances natural airflow and light.
03
Incorporates local stone to integrate with the regional environment.
04
Employs passive design strategies to minimize energy consumption.
05
Designed for flexibility, allowing for adaptability over time.

### Overview

Located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the 3D Printed Breathing House (3DPBH) merges cultural influences with technological innovation and sustainable practices. This architectural proposal builds upon the principles of the traditional courtyard house while integrating modern construction techniques, particularly 3D printing, to achieve eco-friendly design standards. The project aims to serve as a prototype for future residential architecture that reflects local heritage while addressing contemporary needs.

### Spatial Configuration

The architectural layout features a central courtyard, which facilitates natural light and airflow, thereby minimizing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. This organization, characterized by fluid contours and organic forms, promotes communal living while maintaining individual privacy through a circular arrangement. Interior spaces consist of open-plan living areas designed for flexibility and adaptability, enhanced by large openings that optimize natural light and vistas. Outdoor landscaping incorporates lush greenery and shaded seating areas, providing inviting environments for relaxation and social interaction.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The material palette emphasizes sustainability while ensuring structural stability. 3D-printed concrete serves as the primary construction material, allowing for adaptable forms and reducing waste during fabrication. The design incorporates glass to create a visual connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering ample natural illumination. Reinforced steel is utilized in key structural zones to maintain safety and support open spaces, while locally sourced natural stone contributes to the contextual resonance of the building. Additionally, the inclusion of tropical plants enhances thermal regulation and supports the overall eco-friendly footprint of the project.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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