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Charred Wood Shingles and Concrete Forms Define Sustainable Living in a Desert Oasis

Authors:
Amira Mohammed Mohammedsalih Gadoura, Afra Abdelgalil
Charred Wood Shingles and Concrete Forms Define Sustainable Living in a Desert Oasis

Project in-detail

Charred wood shingles and expansive glass openings create a dynamic dialogue between interior comfort and external climate, establishing a contemporary family residence in the heart of Dubai's arid environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide a distinctive exterior finish that enhances durability and thermal performance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural elements, promoting sustainability and reducing construction waste.
03
The design incorporates a bent A-frame structure, optimizing space and creating unique interior volumes.
04
Strategic shading devices minimize heat gain while maintaining abundant natural light throughout the home.
05
A central courtyard fosters natural cooling and enhances outdoor living experiences in an urban setting.

## Overview

Located in Dubai, the project addresses the needs of family living within the region's distinctive climatic and cultural context. It serves as a case study in environmental adaptation, cultural homage, and sustainability, presenting a modern dwelling designed to function cohesively while minimizing its ecological impact. The layout and design are informed by thorough research on the local environment, specifically concentrating on natural cooling strategies and heat gain reduction.

## Spatial Arrangement

The residence is strategically organized into three distinct zones to promote both privacy and communal interaction. The public zone includes an entrance and Majlis, serving as traditional gathering spaces. The semi-public zone features courtyards and gardens designed for social activities, while the private zone encompasses bedrooms and service areas, ensuring familial seclusion and utility. This spatial configuration not only fulfills practical requirements but also reflects cultural norms surrounding family dynamics in Dubai.

## Climate Responsiveness and Sustainability

The design incorporates various elements to enhance climate responsiveness and sustainability. The orientation of the building is aligned to optimize airflow while reducing exposure to the intense afternoon sun. Overhangs and shading screens provide effective sun protection, contributing to thermal comfort. Natural cooling strategies, including water features and shade trees, facilitate outdoor living and enhance the microclimate surrounding the home.

Sustainability practices are woven into the project, highlighted by a rainwater harvesting system that captures rooftop runoff for household use and the installation of solar panels to harness renewable energy. Skylights throughout the design allow ample natural light to penetrate interior spaces, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting. Such features not only promote energy efficiency but also position the project as a model for sustainable living in similar arid environments.

## Material Selection and Cultural Context

Materials selected for construction prioritize both functionality and aesthetic value. The structural framework employs concrete for its durability, while extensive use of glass allows for natural ventilation and unobstructed views. Wood elements introduce warmth, creating a harmonious contrast with the cooler tones of concrete and glass. The inclusion of locally sourced materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and enhances the home’s contextual relevance.

Culturally, the design incorporates elements such as a central courtyard, reminiscent of traditional Arabic architecture, which fosters social interaction and creates a cooler microclimate. Additionally, local motifs and patterns are integrated into the architectural language, bridging modern design with cultural heritage.

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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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