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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Integration in Modular Residential Design

Authors:
Hussein Mahmoud Hussein Mansour, Ahmed Ibrahim Abdalla Arafa Abdeldayem, Ahmed Abdulmuhsin A Binbaz
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Integration in Modular Residential Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and smooth concrete, the design fosters a modular residential environment that prioritizes adaptability and natural cooling while ensuring a seamless integration with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural efficiency.
03
Features a bent A-frame design providing unique external aesthetics.
04
Emphasizes natural cooling with strategically placed outdoor spaces.
05
Allows for extensive customization through adaptable modular components.

## Overview

Located in Dubai, the Modenclave Villa project focuses on flexible modular architecture that addresses the shifting dynamics of urban living. The design prioritizes adaptability, allowing for customization according to varying lifestyle needs while ensuring structural integrity and aesthetic coherence. The central concept revolves around a core module that can be replicated and modified, catering to both individual preferences and the broader urban context of the city.

### Modular Strategy and Spatial Fluidity

The architectural approach employs a distinction between fixed and variable zones within the design. Fixed strips contain essential structural and service components, providing stability across different configurations. In contrast, variable strips offer opportunities for customization, allowing residents to personalize their living spaces based on family size and requirements. This flexibility is complemented by an integration of landscape elements that enhance privacy and promote outdoor living experiences.

### Material Selection and Environmental Responsiveness

Material choices are thoughtfully selected to enhance both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Smooth concrete serves as a durable foundation, while pristine white plaster accentuates a minimalist visual language. Glass panels are strategically incorporated to maximize natural light and create a connection between interior spaces and the outdoor environment. Sustainability measures embedded in the design include the sharing of structural elements among neighboring villas, minimized glass usage to reduce heat gain, and the introduction of nature-inspired cooling systems through thoughtfully placed courtyards that facilitate cross-ventilation.

### Architectural Expression and User Experience

The exterior facade features clean lines and a harmonious arrangement of openings, ensuring adequate natural light while addressing thermal comfort. Inside, the layout promotes communal living in shared spaces while preserving privacy in designated areas. This thoughtful organization enhances the user experience, creating a comfortable living environment that adheres to modern standards of flexibility and sustainability.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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