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Cross-Laminated Timber and Date Palm Integration in Residential Design for Desert Living

Authors:
Roua Khaled, Idriss Nicolas Attia
Cross-Laminated Timber and Date Palm Integration in Residential Design for Desert Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating cross-laminated timber and local date palm, this residential design optimizes sustainability and functionality while addressing the unique challenges of desert living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates locally sourced date palm wood for both structure and aesthetics.
02
Features a central courtyard designed to enhance privacy and natural ventilation.
03
Utilizes advanced water management systems for efficient resource use.
04
Employs passive cooling techniques to minimize reliance on mechanical systems.
05
Modular design allows for future expansion without major renovations.

### Overview

Villa H is situated in a desert landscape adjacent to urban developments and is designed to address contemporary Emirati living while respecting traditional Arabic architectural practices. This residence integrates innovation with sustainability, providing a functional space that accommodates the needs of family life. The design reflects the cultural significance of privacy and communal living found in traditional Arabic households.

### Spatial Configuration and Interaction

The architectural layout of Villa H features an H-shaped plan comprising two distinct wings. The left wing is dedicated to family functions, offering privacy and intimacy, while the right wing is oriented towards hospitality, designed to accommodate guests. A semi-open courtyard acts as a central hub, enhancing the connection between interior and garden spaces, facilitating both family interaction and outdoor engagement.

### Material Selection and Sustainability Measures

The choice of materials in Villa H emphasizes sustainability and resource efficiency. Notable materials include cross-laminated timber derived from date palm, offering structural strength and aesthetic appeal, and biodegradable composites made from palm leaves. The incorporation of ceramic panels enhances thermal insulation and durability. Additionally, a comprehensive water management system incorporating rainwater harvesting and advanced filtration techniques underlines the residence's commitment to sustainable practices. Energy efficiency is further supported through the installation of solar panels, passive cooling systems, and effective insulation, reducing reliance on external energy sources.

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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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