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Arch-Inspired Design Utilizing Earth Cast Concrete and Local Bricks for Sustainable Living

Arch-Inspired Design Utilizing Earth Cast Concrete and Local Bricks for Sustainable Living
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Utilizing local bricks and earth cast concrete to create a seamless integration of arch elements and modular living spaces, the design emphasizes sustainability and community functionality in a desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes earth cast concrete for thermal mass and energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates locally sourced bricks to enhance structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a modular layout allowing adaptable living configurations for residents.
04
Integrates natural ventilation strategies tailored to the local desert climate.
05
Includes interior gardens to promote biodiversity and provide green living spaces.

### Overview
The Arch House is situated between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, strategically located within the arid desert landscape of the United Arab Emirates. The design responds to the region's climatic and cultural characteristics, incorporating local architectural traditions while addressing contemporary housing challenges. The project occupies a compact plot of 15.5m by 35.5m, focusing on an efficient living space that harmonizes form, function, and environmental considerations.

### Spatial Strategy and Flexibility
Central to the design is the concept of the arch, which serves not only as a structural component but also as a framework for versatile living environments. The layout promotes both flexibility and modularity, allowing residents to adapt living spaces according to their needs. Common areas, including gardens and terraces, enhance community interaction and facilitate social engagement among residents. The inclusion of larger windows and strategic arch placements maximizes natural light and airflow, crucial for maintaining comfort in the hot climate while minimizing reliance on artificial cooling systems.

### Materiality and Environmental Performance
The choice of materials significantly influences the project's sustainability and aesthetic identity. Local earth cast concrete is employed for its thermal properties and energy efficiency, with on-site pouring reducing waste and transportation emissions. Brick, sourced locally, contributes to the building's structural strength and visual character. Wood elements are strategically integrated to foster warmth and a connection to the natural environment. The architectural approach highlights raw finishes, allowing materials to remain exposed and contribute to the building’s overall integrity. Additionally, features such as a Canadian well utilize stable underground temperatures for natural cooling, further underscoring the project's commitment to sustainability.

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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.

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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

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Eligibility Open to all
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