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Carbon-Fiber Dome with Natural Light Integration in Sustainable Residential Design

Authors:
Kelly Bergin, Michael Lord
Carbon-Fiber Dome with Natural Light Integration in Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

A carbon-fiber reinforced dome structure optimizes natural light and thermal efficiency, creating a sustainable residential space that harmonizes with the desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
A carbon-fiber shell enhances structural integrity while minimizing weight.
02
Large glass panels maximize natural light and frame desert views.
03
Compressed earth blocks provide exceptional thermal insulation.
04
The dome shape reduces environmental impact and improves wind resistance.
05
Open plan interior allows flexible use of space for modern living.

The Desert Dome project is a residential architectural design located in Palm Springs, California. It integrates seamlessly with the desert landscape, emphasizing sustainability and efficient living. The design features a dome structure that minimizes environmental impact while providing comfortable living spaces. It aims to create a strong connection with nature, encouraging occupants to appreciate their surroundings.

The project represents a modern approach to residential architecture, focusing on energy efficiency and minimalism. The dome shape is not only aesthetically pleasing but enhances structural integrity and thermal performance, allowing for reduced energy consumption in heating and cooling. The use of innovative materials marks a shift towards sustainable construction practices.

The unique design approaches of the Desert Dome include its use of 3D printed carbon-fiber reinforced ABS, which offers lightweight yet durable walls. This material facilitates unique shapes and reduces waste during the building process. Additionally, compressed earth blocks are utilized for their natural insulation properties, contributing to the project’s sustainability.

Large glass openings integrated into the design serve to maximize natural light and provide expansive views of the landscape, enabling a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This approach is critical in the context of the desert, where light and landscape play a significant role in the living experience.

Internally, the layout emphasizes openness and adaptability, allowing for flexible use of space. The multifunctional areas promote interaction while maintaining privacy when necessary. Key spaces within the dome include a living area that encourages social interaction, a compact kitchenette designed for efficiency, and a multifunctional workspace that accommodates modern remote working needs.

The Desert Dome stands out due to its emphasis on achieving harmony with its natural environment while providing a modern lifestyle. The architect’s considerations in every aspect of design from materiality to spatial organization create a dwelling that is both functional and respectful of its setting.

For a closer look at the architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs that comprise this project, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of the Desert Dome. This exploration will provide a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas that inform this innovative approach to residential living in a desert context.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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