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Charred Wooden Screens and Local Stone Create a Sustainable Desert Residence

Author:
John Dimopoulos
Charred Wooden Screens and Local Stone Create a Sustainable Desert Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden screens and locally sourced stone, the design enhances environmental sustainability while providing a multifunctional living space in a harsh desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally quarried stone to enhance thermal mass and energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates charred wood for both aesthetics and fire resistance.
03
Features large operable windows to maximize natural ventilation.
04
Integrates water management systems for sustainable landscaping.
05
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to optimize structural integrity in harsh conditions.

# House of History, Memory & Dreams: Architectural Overview

The House of History, Memory & Dreams is situated in a desert environment, merging cultural significance with contemporary residential needs. Designed to reflect the principles of Islamic architecture, the structure prioritizes both spiritual depth and environmental sustainability. The project aims to serve its inhabitants while acting as a cultural landmark that engages with local history and addresses modern living requirements.

## Spatial Organization and User Experience

The design features a flexible layout that accommodates various family sizes through adaptable configurations. This versatility contributes to long-term usability and community integration. Outdoor spaces, including gardens and shaded seating areas, are strategically placed to promote social interactions while ensuring privacy for individual retreats. Bedroom areas are thoughtfully arranged to facilitate both connection and seclusion, enhancing the overall user experience.

## Materiality and Environmental Strategies

Material selection is integral to the architectural approach, balancing aesthetics with functionality. Local stone is employed for thermal efficiency and durability, while large glass openings create a connectivity with the surroundings and maximize natural light. Additional elements, such as intricate metal screens, enhance both privacy and architectural identity. Grounded in a commitment to ecological stewardship, the design incorporates geothermal energy systems, advanced water management techniques, and solar panels to promote energy independence. Venturi effects also enhance natural ventilation, thereby reducing reliance on mechanical climate control. Overall, the design embodies a careful consideration of materiality and a responsive approach to its challenging climate.

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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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