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Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Materials Shape An Eco-Conscious Community Habitat

Author:
Marcos Juarez Nicolau
Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Materials Shape An Eco-Conscious Community Habitat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and repurposed materials, this sustainable community habitat embraces its desert surroundings while offering an eco-friendly living experience that fosters connection and resilience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles to enhance fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates vertical farming areas to promote sustainable food production within the community.
03
Features extensive use of recycled plastics in structural components, minimizing environmental impact.
04
Designed with large overhangs to optimize natural shading and reduce energy consumption.
05
Incorporates gravity-fed water systems to efficiently manage water resources without relying on pumps.
The Dune Project in Dubai represents a thoughtful approach to architecture that harmonizes modern living with environmental sensitivity. Situated against the backdrop of the desert landscape, this project serves not just as a residence but as a model for sustainable living within an urban context. The design ethos is rooted in the concept of adapting to the natural surroundings, reflecting the shapes and formations of sand dunes while prioritizing energy efficiency and sustainability.

At its core, The Dune Project functions as a vibrant community space that encapsulates essential living areas, outdoor connections, and communal engagement. The architecture emphasizes a blend of private spaces, such as bedrooms and wellness areas, with public amenities like communal living and dining areas. This duality encourages social interaction among residents while providing necessary personal retreat. The careful spatial organization allows for an efficient flow of movement, enhancing the overall living experience.

The project prominently utilizes recycled materials to reduce its environmental footprint, employing recycled wood and plastics throughout the structure. These choices reflect a commitment to sustainability while also providing practical benefits like enhanced thermal insulation and durability. The integration of solar panels drives home the project's dedication to renewable energy, allowing it to generate its power and position itself as a potential net-zero energy building. This innovative approach extends to the water systems designed to facilitate gravity-fed usage, further promoting low-energy operations.

Key aspects of The Dune Project include its strategic use of passive solar design, which takes advantage of natural light and terrain orientation to maintain comfortable interior conditions throughout the year. Large windows and thoughtful placements improve natural ventilation and minimize reliance on artificial energy sources. The inclusion of green roofs and vertical farming areas not only encourages ecological balance but also provides residents with opportunities for urban agriculture, fostering a sense of community and self-sufficiency.

Unconventionally, the project challenges the traditional notions of residential design by embodying elements that blend lifestyle, sustainability, and connection to nature. The communal spaces are thoughtfully designed to foster interactions, while the private areas ensure that residents have their personal sanctuaries. The architecture invites nature into daily life, with biophilic design elements enhancing spaces to promote mental well-being alongside physical comfort.

The Dune Project exemplifies a unique architectural approach where form and function coexist seamlessly. Each element of the design has been considered holistically, ensuring that ecological principles guide the creation of livable spaces. Aspects like the overall building orientation, material selection, and landscaping work together to create a contextually relevant and environmentally friendly dwelling.

This project provides an excellent opportunity for exploration in architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the meticulous thought that has gone into each detail. Readers interested in sustainable architecture will find a wealth of valuable insights regarding innovative design ideas and approaches by delving deeper into The Dune Project. Exploring its presentation will reveal how architecture can evolve to meet the demands of modern living while respecting and responding to its natural surroundings.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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