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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Sustainable Community Hub

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Sustainable Community Hub
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a harmonious blend of sustainability and functionality in a versatile community hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide a fire-resistant exterior while enhancing visual texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels create a robust structure with reduced carbon footprint.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes interior space and natural light distribution.
04
The landscape integrates native planting to promote local biodiversity and sustainability.
05
Flexible interior spaces accommodate various community activities and events.

### Overview

Located in Dubai, UAE, the housing community design addresses the specific climatic challenges and social dynamics of the region. The intent is to create a sustainable residential environment that promotes community interaction while prioritizing energy efficiency and privacy. This approach facilitates a reexamination of traditional housing models within the context of modern urban living.

### Spatial Organization and Community Engagement

The layout encourages social interaction through shared spaces, prominently featuring central gardens and traditional Sikka pathways. These communal gardens provide shaded areas for residents to engage and connect with one another, while Sikka pathways enhance circulation and natural ventilation, reflecting local cultural heritage. The arrangement of residential units ensures a balance between privacy and accessibility, with a strategic setback of three meters from property boundaries aligned with Dubai's Building Code, facilitating both residential comfort and community connectivity.

### Climate Adaptation and Material Selection

The design incorporates various strategies to respond effectively to Dubai's harsh climate. Building orientation along a north-south axis minimizes exposure to direct sunlight and mitigates overheating, while earth cooling tubes contribute to natural ventilation, optimizing airflow through strategically placed openings. Material selection is also critical, with options such as AAC blocks and lightweight, reflective surfaces employed to enhance thermal performance and reduce heat absorption. The use of sustainable materials, including vapor barriers and insulation boards, further enhances the overall resilience and energy efficiency of the structures.

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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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