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Charred Wooden Cladding and Greywater Systems in a Modular Family Home

Author:
Ashraf Allabban
Charred Wooden Cladding and Greywater Systems in a Modular Family Home

Project in-detail

With a focus on charred wooden cladding and an integrated greywater recycling system, this modular family home adapts to evolving needs while promoting sustainability and functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates a greywater recycling system to promote water efficiency.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
04
Designed with flexible modular elements to accommodate future expansions.
05
Includes large glass panels to maximize natural light and outdoor views.

## Overview

The Modular Villa is located in an urban setting in the UAE, designed to meet contemporary residential demands through an adaptable and sustainable approach. Emphasizing modular construction principles similar to LEGO systems, the project facilitates dynamic growth and customization for its inhabitants. The design intends to address modern living requirements while maintaining a connection with cultural influences typical of the region.

## Design Strategy

The two-story layout efficiently organizes functional areas to support daily living and social interaction. The ground floor features an open plan that combines a spacious living area, family room, kitchen, and dining space, accommodating family gatherings and providing various utility features such as a maid's room. The first floor is oriented toward privacy, containing multiple bedrooms connected by shared terraces and corridors, thus balancing personal space and communal living.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

Key materials selected for the Modular Villa prioritize sustainability and functionality. Reinforced concrete ensures structural integrity, while large glass elements enhance natural light and visual connectivity with the surroundings. Incorporating natural stone for facade elements adds texture and helps with climate resilience. The use of eco-friendly finishes further aligns with the project’s commitment to reducing environmental impact. Unique to this design is a greywater recycling system, which promotes water conservation within the residential environment. The inherent modularity allows for future expansions, reflecting a strategic approach to long-term residential adaptability.

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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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