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Central Courtyard Surrounded by Perforated Panels and Sustainable Timber Framework in a Mindfulness Residence

Authors:
Alia Beyg, Carmen Reyes
Central Courtyard Surrounded by Perforated Panels and Sustainable Timber Framework in a Mindfulness Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing perforated panels and a central courtyard, this residence enhances natural light and biophilic connections while promoting mindfulness and well-being through its thoughtfully designed spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a central courtyard designed to enhance natural ventilation and light distribution throughout the home.
02
Incorporates perforated panels that provide privacy while allowing light to filter into interior spaces.
03
Features a flexible layout that easily adapts to changing family dynamics and activities.
04
Employs sustainable materials, including cross-laminated timber, to reduce environmental impact.
05
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems to promote resource efficiency and sustainability.

### Project Overview
Located in Dubai, UAE, the House of Mindfulness is designed to address the contemporary needs of families prioritizing mental health and well-being. The concept reflects a commitment to creating an environment that supports mindfulness and healthy living. Drawing from holistic principles, the architecture synergizes with the emotional and mental requirements of its inhabitants.

### Spatial Strategy
The design incorporates an enclosed form that promotes communal interaction while providing private spaces essential for individual reflection. A central courtyard facilitates the influx of natural light and ventilation, establishing a connection between indoor and outdoor environments. This arrangement enhances the overall sense of harmony and integration with nature. The flexible room layouts accommodate evolving family needs, allowing spaces to adapt—such as transforming an office into a guest room.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The selection of sustainable materials is central to the project's design goals, focusing on creating an eco-friendly living environment. Key materials include a steel and timber frame structure, perforated 3D-printed panels, and insulation boards, all contributing to energy efficiency and thermal performance. Photovoltaic solar panels and a rainwater collection system further enhance sustainability. The façade's textured finishes not only add aesthetic value but also perform functionally by reducing solar glare while improving the privacy and visual complexity of the home.

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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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