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Cork and Clay Integration in Modular Living Spaces Crafted for Community Engagement

Authors:
Asher David Bourne, Fareed Faisal Fareed Fareed, Lewis Ruben Brown
Cork and Clay Integration in Modular Living Spaces Crafted for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced cork and clay, the design creates adaptable modular living spaces that emphasize sustainability and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced cork blocks for superior thermal insulation.
02
Features vertical fins that enhance shading and privacy.
03
Incorporates smart water collection systems for sustainability.
04
Includes modular configurations allowing for flexible living arrangements.
05
Integrates traditional wind tower elements for natural ventilation.

### Project Overview

Located in Dubai, the design initiative reexamines conventional living environments by transforming traditional boundary walls into adaptive, inhabitable spaces. The intent is to harmonize modern living standards with the cultural nuances of Emirati society, creating an architectural narrative that respects historical precedents while addressing contemporary needs.

### Modular Design and Spatial Strategy

The project features a modular design that challenges the perception of boundary walls as rigid structures. This approach fosters a flexible spatial organization, with a ground floor that encourages social interaction through an open layout comprising a kitchen, dining area, and living spaces. The upper level prioritizes privacy with four en-suite bedrooms, enhanced by triangular loggias that provide views while maintaining seclusion. The interplay between communal gardens and private areas further promotes engagement among residents, ensuring that the layout supports both connectivity and individual retreat.

### Materials and Sustainability

Central to the project’s ethos is a commitment to sustainability, evident in the carefully selected material palette. Key materials include cork blocks for natural thermal insulation, local oak for structural integrity and warmth, and clay bricks that reference traditional building techniques. Innovative sustainability strategies have been integrated, such as a wind tower for natural ventilation, a water collection system utilizing fine nets to condense humidity, and loggias designed to maximize natural light while providing privacy. These elements collectively enhance the building's environmental performance and align it with the local architectural context.

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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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