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Clay Plaster Facade With Integrated Solar Panels in Desert Family Residence

Authors:
Jameel Rudwan, Shirin Shikh Aioub
Clay Plaster Facade With Integrated Solar Panels in Desert Family Residence

Project in-detail

Constructed with a clay plaster facade and integrated solar panels, the residence exemplifies sustainable living in a desert environment, providing a functional and welcoming home for a family while maintaining cultural traditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Clay plaster facade enhances thermal mass and insulation.
02
Integrated solar panels provide energy independence for the residence.
03
Multiple outdoor courtyards foster social interaction and cultural practices.
04
Private family spaces are strategically placed for intimacy and comfort.
05
Rainwater harvesting systems support sustainable water management.

## Architectural Design Project Report: Ancient Wisdom, Modern Living

### Overview
This report presents an analysis of a sustainable residence situated in a desert environment, designed in accordance with the values of the local Emirati community, including family, religion, and hospitality. The project emphasizes a respectful reinterpretation of traditional architectural elements, aiming to foster community interaction and family cohesion while adapting to local climatic conditions.

### Spatial Configuration and User Interaction
The layout is characterized by a thoughtful arrangement of public and private zones. The central area features an open-plan living and dining space that connects to private yards and patios, encouraging social gatherings and aligning with the Emirati tradition of communal dining. Private spaces are strategically oriented toward the private yard, creating intimate environments that facilitate personal reflection and connection among family members. Various patios and gardens provide spaces for leisure and interaction, enhancing the overall user experience.

### Materiality and Passive Design Strategies
The construction utilizes a combination of materials to achieve both aesthetic and functional objectives. Clay plaster is employed for its thermal mass, while concrete and timber provide structural integrity and warmth. Stone tiles are incorporated into the roofing system, contributing to rainwater collection efforts. The design emphasizes sustainability through passive cooling techniques, including roof overhangs and strategically positioned openings that promote natural ventilation. These elements work together to maintain comfortable indoor conditions without reliance on mechanical cooling systems.

Additional sustainability features include a rainwater harvesting system, energy-efficient solar panels, and effective thermal regulation through thick walls and carefully planned window placements. Collectively, these strategies not only support a self-sufficient living environment but also enhance the integration of the home within its desert context.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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