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Charred Wood Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Sustainable Desert Residence

Authors:
Charalambos Campolo, Gaetano Di Quattro
Charred Wood Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Sustainable Desert Residence

Project in-detail

Employing charred wood shingles and natural stone to withstand the harsh desert climate, the residence achieves self-sufficiency and sustainability while providing a comfortable family living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a dual modular polyethylene tank system for efficient water storage.
02
Features a non-electric wastewater treatment system for sustainability.
03
Incorporates a high-efficiency photovoltaic array covering 40 square meters.
04
Employs advanced thermal insulation to minimize energy consumption.
05
Integrates native, drought-resistant landscaping to enhance environmental harmony.

## Analytical Report on OASI HOUSE: A Self-Sufficient Family Residence

### Overview

Located in the desert environment of Dubai, OASI HOUSE exemplifies self-sufficient and sustainable residential design. The project integrates advanced engineering techniques and materials in alignment with international environmental standards. Specific attention is given to energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainability, creating a practical dwelling that meets the challenges of its arid context while encouraging environmental stewardship.

### Structural and Spatial Design

#### Layout

The design features a well-organized floor plan with distinct areas dedicated to living, dining, and private functions. Notable elements include:

- **Open-plan Living Area:** A combined space for living, dining, and kitchen activities, which promotes family engagement and maximizes natural light through extensive glazing.
- **Private Quarters:** Bedrooms are thoughtfully placed to ensure privacy and tranquility while maintaining an efficient use of space.
- **Utility Spaces:** The inclusion of an office and maids’ room caters to modern lifestyle requirements while enhancing the overall functionality of the residence.

#### Outdoor Integration

Landscaping is harmoniously integrated with the built environment, featuring outdoor lounges and shaded gardens. The design utilizes drought-resistant plants appropriate for Dubai’s climate, promoting outdoor activities while minimizing water usage.

### Materiality and Sustainability

#### Material Choices

OASI HOUSE employs a blend of traditional and contemporary materials to achieve both functional performance and aesthetic appeal:

- **Structural System:** Utilizing a wood and steel framework provides durability alongside a modern aesthetic. High-performance insulation is critical for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures in the desert climate.
- **Finishes:** Natural stone flooring offers thermal comfort and visual connection to the surrounding landscape, while extensive glass paneling enhances views and natural light penetration.

#### Innovative Systems

Water management and energy solutions are central to the house’s sustainability strategy:

- **Water Systems:** A dual modular polyethylene tank system stores 30,000 liters of potable water, ensuring compliance with local water standards. A non-electric wastewater treatment system offers cost-efficient maintenance and relies on minimal energy.
- **Energy Strategies:** A high-efficiency photovoltaic array on the roof generates up to 20 kW, facilitating energy independence and reducing reliance on the grid. The multi-split cooling system optimizes energy use to respond effectively to Dubai's fluctuating temperatures.

### Environmental Consideration

The design is strategically responsive to its climate, maximizing natural ventilation and minimizing mechanical cooling needs. This careful integration of environmental and user considerations positions the OASI HOUSE as a model for sustainable living in arid urban contexts.

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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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