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Cave-Inspired Design Featuring Local Stone and Flexible Family Spaces in a Desert Context

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Cave-Inspired Design Featuring Local Stone and Flexible Family Spaces in a Desert Context
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Utilizing local stone and a cave-like spatial configuration, the design facilitates a balance between communal interaction and private retreats, accommodating the dynamic needs of modern family living in a desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local stone to seamlessly blend with the surrounding desert landscape.
02
Features a cave-like spatial configuration to foster family interaction and privacy.
03
Incorporates large glass panels for enhanced natural lighting and views.
04
Includes flexible internal layouts that adapt to changing family dynamics.
05
Prioritizes thermal performance through strategic building orientation and materials.

## Project Overview

The Cave House in Between is a residential project located in a desert landscape, designed to explore the relationship between environmental elements and contemporary architectural practices. The framework emphasizes the adaptability of dwelling types to support familial units and acts as a transitional space, drawing inspiration from traditional cave dwelling forms.

## Spatial Configuration

### Communal and Private Zones

Central to the design is the concept of "shared cave," a large communal area aimed at fostering interaction among family members while also ensuring the necessity for private spaces. The communal zone serves as a multifunctional hub, capable of accommodating various activities as family dynamics evolve. Surrounding this area are smaller, private rooms designed for individual purposes, such as bedrooms and workspaces, which balance the need for social engagement with personal reflection.

## Materiality and Environmental Considerations

The material selection reflects the project's conceptual goals, utilizing concrete for structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Large glass panels enhance transparency, maximizing natural light and blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. Local stone is incorporated into the façade, aligning the structure with its natural context and improving thermal efficiency. Wood elements introduce warmth and tactile contrast. Additionally, the design responds to the harsh desert climate through careful orientation and ventilation strategies, optimizing cooling and air circulation while adapting to seasonal changes.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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