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Charred Wooden Shingles and Sandstone Facades Define a Sustainable Multigenerational Home

Author:
Pol Martin Gallagher
Charred Wooden Shingles and Sandstone Facades Define a Sustainable Multigenerational Home

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles and sandstone cladding that reflect local heritage, the design creates adaptable, multigenerational living spaces geared towards sustainable family dynamics.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide natural fire resistance while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels ensure quick assembly and structural stability.
03
The bent A-frame design enables effective rainwater drainage and passive cooling.
04
Internal courtyards foster natural ventilation and light optimization throughout the home.
05
Adaptive room configurations support evolving family needs over time.

### Overview
The Dubai House of the Future, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, is situated within a densely populated suburban neighborhood in Dubai. This residential project aims to embody a synthesis of advanced architectural design and sustainable practices while reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Emirate. The design challenges traditional residential concepts by incorporating adaptable living spaces and innovative technologies that address the contemporary needs of its inhabitants.

### Adaptive Spatial Solutions
Central to the design is an emphasis on flexibility and adaptability, allowing for the dynamic reconfiguration of living spaces to accommodate various family structures and needs. The layout permits expansions or modifications without substantial structural alterations, enhancing the functionality of the home for multigenerational living. Shared spaces foster interaction among family members while offering private areas that respect individual needs. The design integrates passive cooling techniques through a subterranean water system connected to a ventilation chimney, which minimally impacts energy consumption while improving indoor air quality.

### Material Selection and Integration
The choice of materials plays a significant role in the project's architectural expression. Reinforced concrete ensures structural integrity, while extensive use of glass invites natural light and openness into the home. Timber vertical slats provide both shade and ventilation, nodding to traditional Emirati design motifs. Sandstone cladding links the structure to its arid environment and enhances thermal efficiency. Solar panels are integral to the energy systems, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. Additionally, internal courtyards and landscaped areas establish a connection with nature, promoting ecological health while enhancing the overall aesthetic experience of the residence.

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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
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