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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Form a Sustainable Residential Haven

Author:
Mohamed Emad Mohamed Kassem
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Form a Sustainable Residential Haven

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the residence embodies sustainable design principles while providing a functional living space tailored to the unique climate of Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to boost structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that aids in natural ventilation and light distribution.
04
Utilizes an atmospheric water generator to support water harvesting in arid conditions.
05
Integrates traditional *Mashrabiya* screens for cultural resonance while optimizing shading.

## Overview

The "House of the Future," situated in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, presents a comprehensive approach to sustainable living within the region's specific environmental and cultural context. The project emphasizes sustainability and adaptability, utilizing modern materials and traditional architectural forms to foster eco-conscious living. Advanced building technologies have been employed to harmonize environmental efficiency with aesthetic values, catering to anticipated future occupancy demands.

## Spatial Configuration and Functionality

The organization of the space is deliberately designed to accommodate various functional zones. The basement level houses automated parking and utility spaces, optimizing functionality and convenience. The ground level features a flexible layout that combines living, dining, and communal areas, enhanced by outdoor courtyards that facilitate natural cooling and promote social interaction. Upper levels are dedicated to private sleeping quarters, reinforcing the adaptability of the design. A spatial arrangement based on the Hilbert Curve maximizes space utilization while maintaining aesthetic integrity, allowing for straightforward future expansions.

## Material Selection and Environmental Strategies

Materiality plays a crucial role in the design philosophy, focusing on sustainability and the use of locally sourced resources. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) is the primary structural material, known for its strength and energy efficiency. The inclusion of locally sourced materials, such as timber and stone, deepens the building's connection to its environment while minimizing transportation-related carbon emissions.

The design integrates innovative systems such as Atmospheric Water Generators (AWGs) for effective water harvesting and solar panels to support renewable energy needs. Furthermore, the environmental strategies feature a radiant cooling system that enhances indoor comfort with minimal energy consumption, alongside windcatchers that utilize natural ventilation to reduce reliance on mechanical cooling. The biomimetic design of the *Mashrabiya* façade further connects the structure to local ecological patterns, enhancing shade and cooling through adaptive features.

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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
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