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Bamboo Structure With Geometric Mashrabiya Roof Supporting Sustainable Living Spaces

Authors:
Yousef Abdulmohsen Salem Alharoun, Bashar Ali Hussain Alhaddad
Bamboo Structure With Geometric Mashrabiya Roof Supporting Sustainable Living Spaces

Project in-detail

The use of a geometric mashrabiya roof and a bamboo structure culminates in an environmentally sensitive residence designed to foster community interaction and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a geometric mashrabiya roof design for natural ventilation and light diffusion.
02
Utilizes locally sourced bamboo to enhance sustainability and reduce carbon footprint.
03
Features an innovative rainwater harvesting system integrated into the architectural design.
04
Employs spiral staircases that promote fluid circulation between living spaces.
05
Includes green roofs that support local biodiversity and improve thermal performance.

### Project Overview

The Palm House is a residential structure that draws inspiration from the Arabian date palm tree, integrating principles of biomimicry with a focus on sustainability. Situated in a context reminiscent of Middle Eastern environments, the design reflects a deep connection to local ecology and architectural traditions. The intent is to create a harmonious living space that enhances occupants' relationship with their natural surroundings while promoting environmental responsibility.

### Spatial Organization and Design Elements

The architectural concept employs a radial floor plan that organizes distinct living zones, facilitating both community interaction and individual privacy. Central to the structure is a main core, reminiscent of a palm tree trunk, which supports multiple levels. Integrated spiral staircases enhance circulation throughout the space, combining functionality with aesthetic appeal. Notably, the mashrabiya roof features a geometric pattern that draws from traditional Islamic design, enhancing ventilation and light diffusion while incorporating solar cells to support energy efficiency. The design maximizes natural light and views through large glass panels and features green roof gardens that incorporate local flora, promoting biodiversity and passive cooling strategies.

### Material Application and Sustainability Features

The material palette demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and local identity. Bamboo, concrete, local stone, marble, aluminum, and polycarbonate are skillfully employed to achieve structural integrity, aesthetic warmth, and energy efficiency. Key sustainability features include an integrated solar cell system for harnessing renewable energy, a rainwater catchment system that reduces dependence on external sources, and wind-catching systems designed to optimize natural ventilation. These elements collectively reinforce the project’s aim to create a livable, environmentally conscious residential community.

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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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