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Coral Stone Facade and 3D-Printed Concrete Structure Enabling Flexible Community Living

Author:
Carlos Joel Trindade
Coral Stone Facade and 3D-Printed Concrete Structure Enabling Flexible Community Living

Project in-detail

A facade of coral stone and a structural system utilizing 3D-printed concrete create a flexible living space that promotes community interaction while reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Emirati context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Coral stone facade integrates cultural heritage with modern construction techniques.
02
3D-printed concrete elements enhance design flexibility and reduce material waste.
03
Bent A-frame structure promotes efficient spatial organization while optimizing natural light.
04
Modular design allows reconfiguration to adapt to changing family needs and lifestyles.
05
Outdoor terraces foster communal interaction and connect residents with the natural environment.

### Overview

The project is situated in the Emirati context, characterized by a blend of diverse cultural influences and contemporary innovation. It aims to establish a living model that intertwines individual expression with community values, emphasizing modularity and sustainability. Advanced materials and design strategies are utilized to create a residence that is both adaptable and environmentally responsible.

### Spatial Strategy

The design employs a framework of concentric spaces that evolve outwardly, facilitating personal growth while fostering community connectivity. This approach reflects the notion that a dwelling serves as an extension of its occupants, promoting a harmonious relationship between the individual and the environment. The layout is rooted in fundamental architectural principles, featuring a central core that radiates to interconnected living spaces. This configuration balances functional diversity with a cohesive aesthetic, allowing the residence to evolve as the occupants' needs change.

### Material Selection and Construction Techniques

Innovative structural elements underscore the architectural integrity of the residence. A robust steel channel framework enables modular connectivity, granting both flexibility and scalability. The external facade is formed using a distinctive blend of 3D-printed concrete and sand, which not only adds a unique textural quality but also enhances durability. Incorporating coral stone, a material steeped in Emirati tradition, further enriches the design, symbolizing cultural values while offering aesthetic appeal.

Complementary materials such as brushed metal finishes provide a contemporary accent, while mass timber elements create a warm and inviting atmosphere within the interiors. These choices reflect a commitment to quality and environmental stewardship, contributing to a sustainable building approach tailored to modern living.

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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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