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Clay Brick Facade With Hydroponic Green Roofs in a Sustainable Community Design

Author:
Joseph Ingea
Clay Brick Facade With Hydroponic Green Roofs in a Sustainable Community Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing clay brick facades and hydroponic green roofs, this sustainable housing project enhances energy efficiency and promotes community living in a contextually responsive environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes clay brick for thermal regulation and cultural resonance.
02
Integrates hydroponic systems on roofs for enhanced insulation and aesthetics.
03
Incorporates smart home technology for resource efficiency and automated management.
04
Features a multi-level layout promoting community interaction while maintaining privacy.
05
Employs rainwater harvesting systems to address local water scarcity.

### Overview

The project proposes a sustainable housing model situated in Dubai, drawing inspiration from traditional Arabian architecture while integrating advanced technologies. Titled “Back to Humanity,” it addresses modern living challenges through innovative design solutions that respect cultural heritage and environmental context.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The layout includes a basement, ground, and first floors, featuring functional rooms such as living areas, bedrooms, a garage, and service spaces. The design employs an open-plan concept to enhance interaction among occupants, creating an environment conducive to communal living while maintaining personal privacy. Additionally, landscaped areas with seating and shaded spaces establish a connection between indoor and outdoor environments.

### Sustainability and Material Selection

The project prioritizes sustainability through passive cooling techniques, including shaded roofs and embankments, which significantly reduce energy consumption. A chilled water system in conjunction with hydroponic green roofs aids in regulating indoor climate. Materials such as clay bricks, known for their thermal properties, contribute to overall heat management. Green roof systems incorporating local vegetation enhance insulation and blend the structure with its surroundings. Photovoltaic panels integrated into the roof design facilitate solar energy harnessing, bolstering the home’s energy self-sufficiency.

Moreover, the design incorporates multifunctional water management systems for rainwater capture and reuse, reflecting a commitment to addressing water scarcity. Smart home technologies optimize energy and resource management, reinforcing the project’s focus on efficiency. Each residential cluster is designed as a micro-energy hub, promoting clean energy generation and community sustainability.

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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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Chair
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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