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Coral Stone Facade Enhanced by Algae Panels in a Biophilic Residential Community

Author:
Daniel Baldassarri
Coral Stone Facade Enhanced by Algae Panels in a Biophilic Residential Community

Project in-detail

Utilizing a coral stone facade and algae panels, this biophilic residential community integrates sustainable materials and advanced water management systems to create a harmonious living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates algae panels for energy generation and water management.
02
Utilizes coral stone from local sources for the facade.
03
Employs 3D printing techniques for structural components.
04
Features extensive natural ventilation systems to enhance indoor air quality.
05
Incorporates open courtyards that support community interaction and biodiversity.

## Overview
Located in the Arabian Peninsula, Neo-Eden is an architectural project that integrates traditional cultural values with contemporary living. The design emphasizes environmental sustainability and aims to create a microcosm reflective of future lifestyles, where essential elements such as Earth, Light, Air, Water, and Biophilia are seamlessly woven into daily life. This approach fosters a balance between modern conveniences and ecological responsibility, rooted in the region's rich heritage.

## Environmental Strategy
The design employs a series of environmentally centered strategies that adapt to the local geography and climate. It utilizes local materials and integrates site-specific topography to enhance resilience. Passive solar design techniques are incorporated to control sunlight ingress, optimizing interior comfort while minimizing dependency on mechanical heating and cooling systems. Further promoting sustainability, the project includes advanced water management systems that capture and recycle rainfall, alongside promoting natural ventilation to mitigate the impacts of the arid climate. The incorporation of biophilic design principles enhances the connection to nature, contributing to the well-being of occupants through abundant natural elements and open spaces.

## Materiality and Construction Techniques
The material selection for Neo-Eden reflects both functionality and aesthetic considerations, employing a diverse palette that includes local coral stone, wood, and glass for their structural and stylistic attributes. Innovative components such as algae panels are integrated for energy generation and water management, enhancing sustainability. The construction methodology prioritizes efficiency and sustainability through the use of 3D printing for below-ground structures and prefabricated components for above-ground elements, reducing waste while ensuring high quality. This thoughtful assembly allows for a flexible spatial organization catering to both private and public needs, while supporting a range of family configurations as lifestyles evolve. Indoor and outdoor spaces are designed to facilitate community interaction and leisure, promoting a vibrant living environment.

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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

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
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