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Charred Timber Cladding and Natural Cooling Strategies in a Sustainable Desert Residence

Author:
Stephan Claude Lando
Charred Timber Cladding and Natural Cooling Strategies in a Sustainable Desert Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred timber cladding and integrated solar panels, this residence achieves sustainable energy efficiency while emphasizing natural cooling techniques, ultimately serving as a modern family home in the arid climate of Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates barjeel to optimize airflow and enhance ventilation.
02
Utilizes 3D printing for select structural components, reducing waste.
03
Features green roofs that support local biodiversity and reduce heat.
04
Employs a central courtyard design that fosters social interaction and privacy.
05
Integrates reflective pools for temperature regulation through evaporative cooling.

### Project Overview
Located in the vibrant urban landscape of Dubai, the Oasis House is designed to reflect contemporary Emirati culture while addressing the unique environmental challenges of the region. This hybrid dwelling integrates aesthetic and functional elements suited for modern living, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and resource efficiency. The architecture aspires to create a new vernacular that resonates with the desert environment and the social dynamics of Emirati life.

### Spatial Strategy and User Interaction
The design features a central inward-looking courtyard, which serves as a crucial element for enhancing privacy and fostering community interaction. This arrangement encourages familial bonding while remaining true to traditional Arab architectural principles. The layout strategically facilitates natural ventilation, prioritizing thermal comfort and enhancing the relationship between built environments and their natural settings.

### Material Innovation and Sustainability
The construction of the Oasis House employs a diverse array of materials that align with its sustainable objectives. Key components include wooden roof panels, lightweight steel, and calcium sulfate with a timber frame, all selected for their low environmental impact and practicality. Additionally, the incorporation of 3D printing technology in certain structural elements highlights a commitment to innovative building practices, significantly reducing labor costs and material waste.

Sustainable features of the design further include integrated solar panels for energy autonomy, water management systems for effective rainwater harvesting, and strategically placed courtyards that contribute to a moderated indoor climate. The thoughtful integration of native vegetation enhances biodiversity, reinforcing the architectural commitment to environmental stewardship.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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