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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Sustainable Oasis in Urban Living

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Sustainable Oasis in Urban Living
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this sustainable dwelling integrates natural ventilation and communal spaces, offering a modern oasis in Dubai's urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for both structural support and insulation.
02
Features charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and ventilation.
04
Integrates a central green courtyard to promote biodiversity and outdoor engagement.
05
Employs 3D-printed shading devices that reduce solar heat gain while adding aesthetic detail.

### Overview

The Prefabricated Oasis is situated in a residential area of Dubai, designed to address the challenges of a growing population while integrating aspects of cultural heritage and modern sustainability. This project reflects a contemporary interpretation of the traditional family house, optimized for the region's unique climate and urban conditions. Spanning a 450 m² plot with a constructed volume of 298 m², the design prioritizes natural light and spatial organization to create a bright and airy living environment.

### Spatial Organization

The architectural layout is divided into three distinct zones: private living areas, shared communal spaces, and service zones. The private sector includes four bedrooms with adjacent bathrooms, ensuring both comfort and seclusion. An open-concept living area merges with the kitchen and dining spaces, fostering community interaction while maintaining functional separation. Service areas, such as utility and storage rooms, are incorporated efficiently to optimize space without detracting from the overall aesthetic.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) is a central material in this project, valued for its sustainability and lightweight properties that significantly decrease transportation emissions. The thermal insulating qualities of CLT are particularly suited for Dubai’s climate, contributing to energy efficiency. Concrete components provide structural integrity while enhancing resilience. The facade features 3D-printed shading panels, innovatively designed to filter sunlight and improve energy efficiency. Additionally, large operable windows facilitate natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling. A green courtyard with extensive plantings not only enhances aesthetic value but also contributes to improved air quality and microclimatic conditions, further integrating sustainability into the design.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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