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3D-Printed Earth Materials and Traditional Water Channels in Arid Residential Design

Author:
Vladimir Gligorovski
3D-Printed Earth Materials and Traditional Water Channels in Arid Residential Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing 3D-printed earth materials and a qanat system for water management, the design integrates traditional elements with modern sustainable practices to create a functional residential space in an arid landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D-printed earth materials for energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates a traditional qanat system for sustainable water management.
03
Features open courtyards to facilitate natural ventilation.
04
Employs a modular design for flexible living spaces.
05
Integrates a double façade inspired by local mashrabiya for privacy and shade.

### Overview

Wadi House is situated in the Arabian Peninsula, an area characterized by extreme climatic conditions that demand innovative architectural solutions. The design integrates modern principles with local environmental and cultural contexts, promoting both comfort and sustainability in residential living. The name "Wadi," which translates to riverbed in Arabic, reflects the intent to create a sense of movement and connection within the arid landscape.

### Spatial Strategy and Community Focus

Central to the Wadi House design are natural courtyards that serve as communal spaces, facilitating family interactions and a sense of community. The layout is modular, allowing for future flexibility and growth, thus meeting the evolving needs of its residents. Traditional elements, such as a Majlis, are incorporated to honor local heritage while embracing contemporary design, creating spaces that support social cohesion.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration

Wadi House employs a range of sustainable materials, including 3D-printed earth-based components that offer thermal mass and eco-friendliness. Solar panels are integrated into the structure for renewable energy generation, while local timber contributes to the authenticity of the design and minimizes transportation emissions. Porous concrete used in the walls enhances airflow, creating a more conducive indoor climate.

The design features a double façade inspired by mashrabiya, which provides shade and privacy while maintaining aesthetic harmony with the surrounding environment. Advanced water management systems, including an integrated qanat, help collect and utilize rainwater efficiently. The thoughtful positioning of the building maximizes natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling and ensuring a comfortable indoor climate year-round.

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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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