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Charred Wooden Shingles and Precast Concrete Unite for Sustainable Desert Habitation

Authors:
Josh Kunkel, Melissa Hosman, Drew Harbour, Beth Kunkel
Charred Wooden Shingles and Precast Concrete Unite for Sustainable Desert Habitation

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and precast concrete, the development harmonizes with its desert environment, providing sustainable living spaces designed to support both human habitation and local wildlife.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and minimize maintenance in a desert climate.
02
Precast concrete elements provide thermal mass for energy efficiency throughout the year.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for optimal airflow and natural ventilation.
04
Integrated greywater recycling systems support sustainable water management.
05
Landscaping incorporates native flora to maintain local biodiversity and habitat.
The architectural project is focused on sustainable habitation in the Arabian Oryx Protected Area in Abu Dhabi. It encompasses a series of residential units and a community hub designed to blend seamlessly into the desert environment. The project aims to provide a balanced coexistence between human habitation and local wildlife, particularly the Arabian Oryx, promoting environmental awareness alongside functionality.

The design features various living units that cater to both communal and individual needs, prioritizing energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact. The overall structural concept employs passive design strategies that take advantage of natural ventilation and sunlight, ensuring comfort for occupants while reducing reliance on mechanical systems. Each unit is purposefully arranged to enhance interaction among residents while maintaining privacy.

Sustainable Material Selection

The choice of materials used in this project reflects a commitment to sustainability and environmental integration. Precast concrete walls are designed for thermal mass, allowing them to absorb and release heat effectively. Light-toned exterior finishes help the structures blend into the surroundings, while skylights are incorporated to maximize natural light, further enhancing passive heating and cooling.

Additional features such as terra cotta and concrete flooring ensure durability and a cohesive aesthetic. The inclusion of solar panels allows buildings to utilize renewable energy, while greywater recycling systems contribute to a sustainable approach to resource management. These components collectively form an effective strategy for sustainable construction within a sensitive desert ecosystem.

Unique Design Approaches

This project stands out through its community-centric approach and ecological focus. The configuration of individual units promotes social interaction while the design of the community hub acts as a communal gathering space with essential amenities such as kitchens and rest facilities.

Important details, such as angled windows, reduce heat gain and control light entry, which is crucial in desert climates. In addition, the landscape design incorporates native plants to support local wildlife, ensuring that the habitat remains untouched and supports biodiversity. The architectural layout takes full advantage of the surrounding environment, creating a space that reflects ecological considerations and responsible resource use.

Architectural plans and sections illustrate the innovative structural choices and spatial organization, providing a deeper understanding of the functional layouts and the intention behind the design. Exploring the architectural designs and ideas behind this project will yield valuable insights into how integrated architecture can enhance both human and wildlife interactions within fragile ecosystems. For a comprehensive understanding, it is encouraged to review the project presentation and its detailed components.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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