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Compressed Earth Blocks and Native Materials Define Sustainable Living in Coastal Context

Author:
Sedigheh Mehdi Pour Bazkiaei
Compressed Earth Blocks and Native Materials Define Sustainable Living in Coastal Context

Project in-detail

Utilizing compressed earth blocks and locally sourced materials, the architectural design creates a cohesive living space that seamlessly blends cultural heritage with contemporary functionality in a coastal environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Compressed earth blocks provide thermal mass and sustainability unique to the local context.
02
Design incorporates shaded porticos enhancing natural cooling and energy efficiency.
03
Internal courtyards offer privacy while maximizing light and ventilation throughout the space.
04
Native materials reduce environmental impact and support local building practices.
05
Flexible space planning allows for adaptable living arrangements catering to family needs.

## Project Overview
The project is situated in a coastal city of the United Arab Emirates, focusing on the complex issues common to urban coastal environments. It aims to create an adaptable living space that merges traditional architectural elements with contemporary requirements while respecting cultural heritage. The design prioritizes environmentally conscious construction techniques using locally sourced materials and is specifically tailored to withstand the region’s extreme climatic conditions.

## Privacy Zoning Strategy
The architectural layout introduces a tripartite zoning system that differentiates public, semi-private, and private spaces within the residence. This organization fosters a coherent flow of daily activities and enhances the quality of life for residents.

- **Public Spaces**: Positioned at the forefront, these include a Majlis—acknowledging its cultural significance—as well as parking and service areas.
- **Semi-Private Areas**: Designed for operational efficiency, these spaces encompass kitchens and utility rooms, strategically located to facilitate workflow.
- **Private Spaces**: Enclosed within the structure, these areas incorporate main bedrooms, private courtyards, and intimate family spaces, providing a retreat from public view.

## Sustainable Material Use
The project actively incorporates sustainable building practices by utilizing traditional construction techniques alongside modern materials. Key building elements include:

- **Compressed Earth Blocks (CEB)**: These eco-friendly blocks are effective in managing heat and facilitate low-maintenance construction. Their design minimizes the use of mortar, simplifying logistics and transport.
- **Local Sand and Cement**: Employed for structural integrity and aesthetic appeal, these materials reduce both costs and environmental impact.
- **Recycled Construction Waste**: Used in various construction components, this approach minimizes waste and promotes sustainability.

These material choices collectively minimize the project’s overall environmental footprint while ensuring adaptability to local conditions.

## Design Harmony
A notable feature of the project is its successful blend of traditional and modern design aesthetics, particularly evident in the incorporation of courtyards and shaded areas. This duality not only reflects the architectural heritage of the region but also integrates modern materials and technologies.

The design enhances urban living through compact spaces that embrace privacy while enabling community interactions. Additionally, the architectural responses to the local climate—prioritizing ventilation and shading—serve to optimize indoor comfort and minimize reliance on mechanical cooling systems. The project presents a compelling model for future urban planning and development in coastal environments.

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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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