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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in Modern Family Housing

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in Modern Family Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this residential structure reflects a contemporary interpretation of Emirati cultural values while providing adaptable living spaces for family and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency and aesthetic warmth.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and fire retardancy.
03
Features large openings for natural light and airflow, promoting passive climate control.
04
Embraces a bent A-frame design that combines modern form with traditional influences.
05
Offers flexible spatial configurations to support diverse family activities and gatherings.

### Project Overview

The Mohina Housetype is situated in a suburban context of the UAE, reflecting traditional Emirati values through a contemporary architectural lens. The design emphasizes familial and communal living, addressing cultural significance while integrating modern amenities. This overview addresses the key design elements, material choices, and distinctive features that characterize this housing typology.

### Spatial Organization and Cultural Integration

The design features a free-flowing ground floor layout that enhances connectivity among spaces, allowing for both private and communal interactions integral to family life. Flexible living areas facilitate adaptability to varying family dynamics. Elements of traditional Islamic architecture, such as pointed arches and shaded arcades, are seamlessly incorporated, bridging historical references with modern living. Additionally, a carefully selected color palette of light blues and sandy tones establishes a calming aesthetic that resonates with the natural environment of Dubai.

### Material Choices and Sustainable Practices

The design utilizes a range of materials that contribute to the project's aesthetic and functional performance. Concrete provides structural integrity, while Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) is employed for its lightweight properties and ease of integration. Frosted glass facilitates privacy without sacrificing natural light, and 3D printed elements create intricate details that acknowledge traditional motifs. Furthermore, the inclusion of decorative facades inspired by jaali screens enhances both visual appeal and environmental efficiency. The integration of solar energy solutions, including solar carports and roof terraces equipped with solar panels, exemplifies a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency in the residential design.

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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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