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Bamboo Cladding and Greywater Systems in a Community-Focused Living Space

Author:
Mohamed Ahmed Hussein Ahmed
Bamboo Cladding and Greywater Systems in a Community-Focused Living Space

Project in-detail

Employing bamboo cladding and advanced greywater recycling, the design enhances energy efficiency while fostering community living in a sustainable residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes bamboo cladding for enhanced thermal performance and sustainability.
02
Incorporates a greywater recycling system to support onsite irrigation.
03
Features a traditional barjeel for natural ventilation and cooling.
04
Constructed using 3D printing techniques to optimize resource efficiency.
05
Designed with urban agriculture in mind, including dedicated greenhouse space.

### Overview
Located in Dubai, UAE, this architectural project represents a synthesis of contemporary design principles, cultural heritage, and sustainable living practices. The intent is to create a residential environment that fosters community engagement and harmonizes with the local context, while integrating advanced technologies. The design prioritizes inclusivity and adaptability, aiming to meet the evolving needs of its inhabitants.

### Spatial Strategy and Functional Design
The spatial layout optimizes functionality and flow throughout the residence. The ground floor features an expansive lobby that transitions into living areas, a kitchen, and utility spaces, all designed with accessibility in mind to accommodate diverse user needs. The first floor is dedicated to personal sleeping quarters, with individually styled bedrooms to reflect the occupants' preferences. The second floor enhances the living experience further with additional bedrooms and a terrace that provides views of the Dubai skyline, supporting both relaxation and social interaction.

### Materiality and Sustainable Technologies
A carefully selected array of materials contributes to both sustainability and aesthetic value. Concrete serves as a durable structural element, while large glass panels maximize natural light and minimize energy consumption. Aluminum framing supports modern design with low maintenance requirements, and bamboo is incorporated into cladding and fixtures for its sustainable properties. The roof is equipped with solar panels to harness renewable energy, complemented by a greywater recycling system that promotes water conservation. Passive cooling strategies leverage the traditional barjeel design, illustrating a commitment to reducing overall energy consumption and enhancing user comfort.

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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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