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Brass Accents and Circular Forms Elevate Sustainable Living in Desert Housing

Authors:
KristÝna UhrovÁ, Simona Gašincová, Vojtěch Langr
Brass Accents and Circular Forms Elevate Sustainable Living in Desert Housing

Project in-detail

Circular forms integrated with brass accents and sustainable materials define a residential space that prioritizes environmental sensitivity while fostering community interaction in a harsh desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular forms enhance natural airflow throughout the living spaces.
02
Brass elements provide durability while contributing to the overall aesthetic.
03
Integrated green spaces promote biodiversity and outdoor engagement.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce construction waste and enhance insulation.
05
The bent A-frame design allows for efficient water runoff in arid conditions.
The architectural design project "Orbis" serves as a residential intervention that merges traditional concepts with innovative design strategies suited for contemporary living. Located in Dubai, this project highlights an approach that responds not only to climatic demands but also to cultural and social contexts. The overall design focuses on creating a living environment that fosters community while maintaining individual privacy through structured spatial organization.

The central theme of "Orbis" is its adaptability to both social interactions and personal spaces. The design features a three-level structure with each floor serving distinct functions. The ground floor emphasizes community engagement with flexible spaces for gatherings and activities. The first floor offers areas for family interaction alongside personal retreats, while the second floor is designed for private living. This arrangement promotes fluid movement between spaces while maintaining a balance of openness and enclosure.

Sustainable material choices are integral to the project. The use of concrete for structural integrity, glass for natural light enhancement, and wood for warmth in the interior finishes reflects a commitment to sustainability and aesthetic coherence. Metal accents provide visual contrast and engage dynamically with lighting conditions, contributing to the project's overall ambiance. These materials have been selected not solely for their durabilities, such as resistance to the local climate but also for their ability to facilitate energy-efficient practices.

One of the project’s unique aspects is its integration of natural elements. Purposefully designed green spaces are woven throughout the layout, offering shade and promoting outdoor activities. This not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the architecture but also supports environmental sustainability by encouraging biodiversity and improving microclimates around the residence. Additionally, the design incorporates advanced technologies for energy efficiency, including solar panels and smart home features that reduce resource consumption and enhance living comfort.

In terms of architectural details, "Orbis" employs a combination of circular and organic forms that disrupt conventional rectilinear layouts. This design strategy encourages a more dynamic flow throughout the space while also allowing for varied spatial experiences. The interplay between different materials and forms adds richness to the residential setting, making it uniquely responsive to both its inhabitants and the surrounding environment.

The project is a noteworthy case study in contemporary residential architecture, demonstrating how thoughtful design can effectively address functional, cultural, and environmental considerations. Industry professionals interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design approaches that define "Orbis" are encouraged to delve deeper into the project's presentation for comprehensive insights into its innovative strategies and architectural ideas.
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Enter an open architecture
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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