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Cactus-Inspired Villa Using 3D-Printed Composite Materials and Sustainable Design Strategies

Authors:
Tasneem Shikari, Simi Varghese Parampil, Nasrin Nazar, Shaun Saji
Cactus-Inspired Villa Using 3D-Printed Composite Materials and Sustainable Design Strategies

Project in-detail

Inspired by the form of a Saguaro cactus and utilizing modular 3D-printed composite materials, the design creates a sustainable residential villa that harmonizes with its desert environment while prioritizing energy efficiency and cultural significance.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the Saguaro cactus, the villa's form enhances natural ventilation and daylighting.
02
Modular design allows for flexible configurations and easy reconfiguration of living spaces.
03
Utilizes innovative 3D-printed composite materials for efficient construction and reduced waste.
04
Integrates local flora in the landscape design to support biodiversity and water conservation.
05
Incorporates traditional Emirati geometric patterns in the façade to reflect cultural heritage.

### Overview
The Saguaro architectural design project is located in the arid landscapes of the UAE, reflecting the resilience and grandeur of the Saguaro cactus. It aims to create an innovative living space that incorporates nature-inspired architecture, modularity, and sustainability while respecting cultural heritage through a contemporary lens.

### Spatial Strategy
The design employs a modular villa concept that mimics the various growth stages of the Saguaro cactus. This approach utilizes interchangeable 3D-printed building modules, allowing for flexible accommodation that adapts to the occupants' needs. The architectural language consists of flowing forms that echo the contours of the cactus, creating a harmonious silhouette that blends with the desert environment. Strategic window placements facilitate natural light penetration while providing shading to enhance interior comfort.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Construction materials include eco-friendly options such as sand, cement, 3D-printed composite materials, and natural timber finishes. Expansive glass windows optimize views and natural light. Photovoltaic panels are integrated to capture solar energy, aligning with sustainability objectives. The design promotes energy efficiency through a home automation system that regulates heating, cooling, and lighting, complemented by passive cooling techniques and high-performance windows. Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems further reduce resource consumption, ensuring a minimal environmental impact. The incorporation of local flora and drought-resistant plants underscores the commitment to environmental harmony and efficient landscaping.

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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
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