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3D-Printed Earth and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Living Spaces in Arid Environments

Authors:
Carlos David Arcos Jacome, Shaohang Qiu, Byron Esteban Cadena Campos, Michel L Eglise Quintana
3D-Printed Earth and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Living Spaces in Arid Environments

Project in-detail

Utilizing 3D-printed earth and cross-laminated timber, the design integrates sustainable practices to create adaptable living spaces that harmonize with the arid landscape of Abu Dhabi.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D-printed earth for environmentally responsible construction.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural performance.
03
Features natural ventilation via strategically designed wind towers.
04
Includes passive solar design principles to minimize energy use.
05
Integrates a modular layout for future adaptability to community needs.

### Project Overview
"Oasis - Harmony in Circularity" is located in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE, and presents a forward-thinking approach to sustainable architecture. The project focuses on integrating circular agricultural practices within urban environments, emphasizing community-oriented living that is both resource-efficient and adaptable. This design reflects a commitment to modern ecological practices, enhancing both agricultural output and human habitats.

### Integrative Design and Spatial Strategy
The foundation of this project lies in the synergy between agricultural systems and architectural forms. It incorporates circular crop patterns to establish a symbiotic relationship between residents and the surrounding landscape. This non-linear spatial configuration allows for future expansions, accommodating shifts in community needs while emphasizing flexibility. The design also includes wind towers, which facilitate natural ventilation without reliance on mechanical systems, thereby reducing energy consumption. The strategic placement of solar panels further enhances energy self-sufficiency, positioning the building as a prototype for sustainable living in arid climates.

### Materiality and Environmental Response
A diverse selection of materials underpins the project's sustainability goals. Walls constructed from 3D-printed earth diminish CO2 emissions, while timber and metal beams provide structural integrity with a focus on sustainability. Glass elements optimize natural lighting, contributing to energy efficiency within the interiors. Practical features such as rainwater harvesting systems promote effective water management and resource conservation. The project's overall aesthetic balances organic and geometric forms, drawing inspiration from the natural environment and reinforcing the connection between built and natural spaces.

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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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