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Clay Walls and Atmospheric Water Capture Shaping A Sustainable Residential Environment

Author:
Mohamed Abdellatef
Clay Walls and Atmospheric Water Capture Shaping A Sustainable Residential Environment

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced clay walls and integrated atmospheric water capture, the design creates a climate-responsive residence that redefines sustainable living in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D-printed clay walls for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Incorporates atmospheric water generation to address local water scarcity.
03
Features windcatchers integrated into the design for natural ventilation.
04
Central courtyard designed to optimize airflow and reduce cooling costs.
05
Local materials sourced to minimize construction-related carbon footprint.

## Overview
The design project located in Dubai merges traditional Emirati architectural elements with modern construction techniques. The intent is to create a residential environment that meets contemporary lifestyle needs while honoring the cultural heritage of the region. This approach facilitates a dynamic living space that emphasizes functionality and aesthetic coherence.

## Spatial Strategy
The architectural form is shaped through a systematic design process that prioritizes privacy and environmental integration. The building’s footprint is offset by 3 meters, allowing for landscaping that enhances both privacy and natural cooling. The incorporation of a central courtyard serves as a ventilation strategy essential in hot climates, while the rounded edges of the structure provide a welcoming aesthetic and improve airflow. Internal layout supports functionality, with an open-plan design that encourages social interaction while ensuring that private spaces remain accessible yet distinct.

## Materiality and Sustainability
Material selection is foundational to the project's sustainability goals. The use of 3D-printed walls and columns, constructed from local materials, provides flexibility tailored to occupant needs and reduces construction waste. Local clay is employed for its natural humidity absorption and thermal resistance. Additionally, the building features a solar panel system and an atmospheric water generation system that collect moisture from the air. These sustainable practices are further complemented by traditional windcatchers, which enhance natural ventilation, thereby lowering energy consumption. The project is designed for adaptability, allowing for future expansion in alignment with occupant requirements.

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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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