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Charred Wood Facade and Natural Materials Define Sustainable Family Residence

Charred Wood Facade and Natural Materials Define Sustainable Family Residence
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Utilizing a charred wood facade that enhances thermal performance, this residence integrates natural materials for a family-oriented living space designed for adaptability and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a charred wood facade for enhanced durability and thermal efficiency.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce construction waste and improve sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that allows for optimal natural light and ventilation.
04
Includes a rainwater harvesting system for efficient water management in the local climate.
05
Designed for flexibility, allowing for easy adaptation to changing family needs.

### Overview

The House of the Future is situated in the United Arab Emirates and embodies a holistic approach to modern residential architecture. This design emphasizes human well-being, environmental sustainability, and cultural sensitivity, aiming to establish a prototype for future housing developments. The structure integrates various elements that support psychological health, community interaction, and respect for traditional values, particularly those relevant to privacy and family dynamics in Arab culture.

### Spatial Strategy and Flexibility

The layout of the house spans approximately 305 square meters, arranged on a 600 square meter plot. Its angular forms create a dynamic relationship between the interior spaces and the exterior environment. The design features a basement for utility purposes, a ground floor dedicated to communal areas such as the living room, kitchen, and dining space, and a first floor that houses private areas including bedrooms and a study. The circulation pattern facilitates movement among family members and guests, utilizing open staircases and corridors to enhance accessibility. Importantly, the design allows for user-driven modifications, accommodating varying family structures and occupancy types over time.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations

The architectural integrity of the house is reinforced through a thoughtful selection of materials. Concrete serves as the primary structural component, providing durability and strength. Large glass windows enable natural light and visual connections with the outdoor landscape, while natural stones like limestone and clay enhance the aesthetic appeal while contributing to thermal regulation. Wood elements in decorative finishes add warmth and visual interest. Sustainable features include integrated solar panels for energy generation, a rainwater harvesting system for irrigation and domestic use, and vertical gardens that improve air quality and foster biodiversity. An innovative air coil system embedded within the walls enhances indoor air quality and regulates temperature through humidity control.

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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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Recurring architecture competitions

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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