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Corten Steel Facade and 3d-Printed Walls in a Sustainable Urban Residence

Corten Steel Facade and 3d-Printed Walls in a Sustainable Urban Residence

Project in-detail

Constructed with 3D-printed walls and clad in weathering steel, the residence exemplifies sustainable living through innovative material use and integrates outdoor spaces with functional areas for modern family life.
5 key facts about this project
01
3D-printed walls reduce construction waste and enhance efficiency.
02
Corten steel facade evolves with weathering, creating a dynamic aesthetic.
03
Integrated photovoltaic cells supply renewable energy directly to the home.
04
Landscaping includes native vegetation, promoting local biodiversity.
05
A central axis optimizes natural light and encourages outdoor connectivity.

## Overview

Situated in Dubai, this project exemplifies a novel approach to sustainable living through the application of 3D printing technology in residential architecture. The design merges traditional and contemporary elements, reflecting a forward-thinking ethos while prioritizing environmental responsibility. The intent is to create a living space that fosters a strong connection between occupants and their natural surroundings.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The layout of the residence is characterized by a separation of volumes, allowing for a thoughtful integration of outdoor elements within the interior spaces. A central linear circulation axis enhances accessibility and interaction between different functional areas—such as living, dining, and recreational spaces—culminating in a unified spatial experience. Key communal areas, including a living room and majlis, are thoughtfully designed to encourage social interaction while maintaining privacy in the private quarters located on the first floor.

### Materiality and Energy Efficiency

The project employs innovative materials that align with its aesthetic and functional objectives. The facade features 3D printed walls constructed from sustainable materials, which significantly reduce construction waste and enhance energy efficiency. Corten steel cladding and perforated metal screens provide a balance of visual appeal and practical shading, allowing natural light while ensuring privacy. Additionally, the integration of transparent photovoltaic cells into the building structure not only generates solar energy but also maintains the influx of daylight.

Incorporating rainwater harvesting systems and passive solar design strategies further illustrates a commitment to sustainability, optimizing natural ventilation and regulating indoor temperatures in Dubai's climate. Landscaped areas with palm trees and outdoor living spaces create microclimates that enhance comfort, effectively blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior 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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