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Charred Wooden Shingles and Earth Tones Define Sustainable Living Amidst Triangular Gardens

Author:
Jean-franÇois Patrice Christophe Patte
Charred Wooden Shingles and Earth Tones Define Sustainable Living Amidst Triangular Gardens

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and incorporating triangular gardens, the design fosters a unique integration of sustainability and community within a modern residential framework.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates triangular gardens to promote biodiversity and ecological balance.
03
Features a central circular staircase that enhances vertical movement and spatial flow.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
05
Includes a traditional Majilis as a communal gathering space, reflecting cultural heritage.

### Architectural Design Report: Heritage Square

#### Overview

Heritage Square, designed for a contemporary architectural competition in Dubai, exemplifies a synthesis of modern geometry and traditional cultural motifs. The project prioritizes integration with the surrounding landscape, employing a warm earth-tone palette and sustainable construction practices. It aims to create an intimate living environment that facilitates community interaction while respecting the geographical and cultural context of the region.

#### Spatial Configuration

Central to the design is the concept of “Enclosure,” which fosters an atmosphere of security and urban intimacy. The layout employs a diagonal square geometry, promoting functional symmetry and psychological comfort. This configuration generates a variety of spatial experiences, balancing privacy and openness through distinct architectural elements, including a central circular core and triangular gardens. An exterior gallery connects indoor and outdoor spaces, offering solar protection and facilitating natural ventilation, while the design of private terraces associated with bedrooms enhances personal outdoor experiences.

#### Material Selection

A conscious approach to materiality informs the project's aesthetic and functional qualities. Concrete serves as the primary structural component, providing durability. Wood is utilized for the Mashrabiyya wall and interior finishes, contributing warmth to the atmosphere. Extensive glass elements enhance transparency and visual connectivity with the surrounding gardens. Terracotta is used in paving and wall treatments to improve thermal comfort, while stone accents in landscaping reinforce the design's connection to the natural environment. Each material choice reflects a thoughtful consideration of cultural significance and sustainability within the contemporary urban framework.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Architect's Chair
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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