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Charred Lattice Screens and Natural Ventilation in an Energy-Efficient Residential Design
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Utilizing charred wooden elements and innovative ventilation strategies, the design fosters a comfortable living environment in an arid landscape, prioritizing energy efficiency and cultural connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
02
Integrates cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency and aesthetics.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize natural ventilation and sunlight exposure.
04
Incorporates a modern mashrabiya system for privacy and passive cooling.
05
Employs integrated planting for natural cooling and improved air quality.

### Overview

Located in arid regions, Desert Hyacinth is designed to redefine residential living through innovative architectural strategies that prioritize sustainability and climatic adaptability. The intent of the project is to create a harmonious balance between modern functionality and cultural heritage while addressing the extreme temperatures characteristic of desert environments.

### Spatial Composition and Functional Design

**Zoning and Layout**
The spatial organization strategically divides the residence into distinct zones: private, semi-private, and service areas. This layout maximizes natural light and promotes cross-ventilation, providing comfort while reducing reliance on artificial lighting and cooling systems. The ground floor includes communal areas—such as a living room and dining space—with direct outdoor access, integrating nature into daily living. In contrast, the first floor accommodates private spaces, designed to ensure individual privacy while maintaining connectivity through shared balconies.

**Mashrabiya and Facade Elements**
The project features a contemporary adaptation of the traditional mashrabiya, providing essential shading and privacy. The northern facade incorporates decorative shading elements and integrated planters to enhance cooling and aesthetic appeal, with color transitions reflecting the palette of local desert flora. This not only contributes to the building's identity but also supports thermal regulation.

### Material Selection and Environmental Considerations

**Sustainable Materials**
Careful material selection underscores a commitment to environmental sustainability. The structure predominantly utilizes concrete for durability, glass for natural illumination, and metal mesh for dynamic mashrabiya elements. Vegetative coverings are included to enhance cooling, while photovoltaic panels are integrated for energy efficiency. These materials are chosen for both their performance characteristics and their ability to contribute positively to the overall aesthetic.

**Ventilation and Energy Efficiency**
The design implements natural ventilation strategies based on traditional architectural practices, utilizing thermal dynamics through ceiling openings. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis informs the design, optimizing airflow and enhancing occupant comfort. Significant energy savings are achieved through effective daylight management, with strategically placed windows and shading devices that control glare while promoting livability. Additionally, kinetic energy storage systems and evaporative cooling techniques further enrich the building's environmental performance, ensuring indoor climate regulation with minimal energy use.

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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

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