Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Colorful Metal Cladding and Sustainable Palm Landscaping in a Contemporary Emirati Residence

Author:
Azam Shahul Hameed Ameer Sulthan Ameer Sulthan
Colorful Metal Cladding and Sustainable Palm Landscaping in a Contemporary Emirati Residence

Project in-detail

Colorful metal cladding reflects traditional khoos patterns while sustainable palm landscaping enhances the environment, creating a contemporary Emirati residence designed for family living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Colorful metal cladding mimics traditional khoos patterns, reinforcing cultural identity.
02
The design incorporates sustainable palm landscaping to enhance local biodiversity.
03
Utilizes an integrated layout that balances communal and private living spaces effectively.
04
Features en-suite bathrooms in all bedrooms for personal privacy within a family setting.
05
Solar panels are included to promote energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

## Project Overview

Located in the United Arab Emirates, this design integrates traditional Emirati culture with contemporary architectural principles. Drawing inspiration from the traditional palm box craft known as "khoos," the structure embodies cultural identity while promoting a sustainable living environment. The design approach balances historical references with modern aesthetics, creating spaces that respect heritage while accommodating contemporary needs.

### Spatial Configuration

The architectural layout features a single integrated block structure, designed to enhance user experience by limiting visibility into private areas. This configuration promotes both community interaction and personal privacy, catering to the dynamics of family living. The design incorporates an integrated garden space, reflecting a commitment to biodiversity and natural growth, thereby improving air quality and visual appeal.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Materials were selected for their durability and aesthetic contribution. Curved aluminum cladding with colorful powder-coated finishes forms the exterior façade, complemented by reinforced concrete for structural integrity. Inside, marble and high-quality floors enhance luxury, while glass panels in balconies and windows facilitate natural light and blur boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. Sustainable features include rooftop solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and the use of local flora in landscaping, collectively promoting an eco-friendly living model.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`

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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy