Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Insulated Concrete Create a Climate-Responsive Family Home

Authors:
Omar Oueini, Imad Eddine Hatab, Adam Kobeissy
Charred Wooden Shingles and Insulated Concrete Create a Climate-Responsive Family Home

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and insulated concrete, the design effectively addresses climate responsiveness while providing a contemporary family residence that prioritizes both comfort and environmental sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates insulated concrete forms to optimize thermal efficiency.
03
Features a central courtyard that fosters natural ventilation and outdoor connectivity.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to improve structural integrity and aesthetics.
05
Integrates sustainable landscaping elements to support local biodiversity.

### Overview

The Saqef architectural design project merges traditional Emirati influences with contemporary design, thoughtfully crafted to reflect and respond to its coastal or arid setting. The name "Saqef," translating to "roof" in Arabic, symbolizes both a literal and conceptual element of the residence. The design intent emphasizes sustainability, creating a living space that engages with its environment while addressing modern living requirements.

### Spatial Configuration

The layout of Saqef prominently features high ceilings, expansive windows, and an open-plan structure that promotes the interconnection of indoor and outdoor spaces. At the heart of the ground floor is a central courtyard that includes a tranquil pool and is surrounded by lush landscaping, fostering a serene atmosphere. The primary living area is designed for social interaction, equipped with comfortable furnishings, while the kitchen and dining spaces are strategically oriented to encourage communal gatherings.

### Material and Environmental Considerations

The selection of materials in Saqef underscores both utility and sustainability. Structural elements utilize insulated concrete forms, providing superior thermal insulation and energy efficiency. Large glass windows enhance natural light and visual connection to the exterior, while strategically applied wood elements offer warmth. Additionally, ceramic tiles and eco-friendly finishes contribute to a low-maintenance environment.

Saqef incorporates a lightweight roof system that promotes natural ventilation, supplemented by an integrated solar farm for renewable energy generation. Water management features, such as rainwater harvesting, further exemplify the project's commitment to resource conservation, enabling adaptability for diverse family needs over time.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`

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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy