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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Design Define Flexible Urban Living

Author:
Mihai Bogdan Gavriliu
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Design Define Flexible Urban Living

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and a modular construction method merge to create a flexible living space in Dubai that adapts to varying family needs while maximizing energy efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural stability while reducing carbon footprint.
03
The modular design allows for easy reconfiguration as family needs change.
04
A bent A-frame shape optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the space.
05
Integrated solar panels contribute to energy self-sufficiency and sustainability.

## Project Overview

Located in Dubai, the "House of the Future" presents a novel approach to housing centered on adaptability, sustainability, and cultural relevance. This modular dwelling is designed to integrate effectively within diverse urban contexts without compromising aesthetic or functional qualities. Employing the Adaptable Nomadic Tectonics (ANT) Construction System, the project addresses logistical and construction cost challenges through its modular design.

### Modular Design and Material Innovation

The core structure consists of individual modules created with an advanced sandwich panel system. This system incorporates materials such as aluminum, thermal insulation, and acoustic insulation, ensuring both thermal efficiency and sound quality. The design respects local architectural traditions, employing decorative elements inspired by Emirati heritage. The panels provide rapid deployment capabilities, making the dwelling suitable for a range of scenarios, from temporary housing to permanent residences.

### Sustainability and Cultural Relevance

A central focus of the project is its commitment to sustainability through the use of energy-efficient systems, including solar panels aimed at reducing the environmental impact. Additionally, eco-friendly materials have been selected to comply with contemporary sustainability standards. The architectural design fosters a connection to Emirati culture, emphasizing open-air spaces and communal areas that enhance social interaction within the community and support traditional family structures. The integration of smart technology allows occupants to customize their living spaces according to their evolving needs, reinforcing the concept of flexible living environments.

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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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