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Cross-Laminated Timber And Greenery Integration In A Contemporary Residential Space

Author:
Gerardo Bernal Cuevas
Cross-Laminated Timber And Greenery Integration In A Contemporary Residential Space

Project in-detail

Employing cross-laminated timber and an integrated indoor garden, this contemporary residence enhances natural ventilation and connectivity to the environment while providing functional living spaces for a family.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Features a central indoor garden that enhances air quality and natural light.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for low maintenance and fire resistance.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure that maximizes spatial volume.
05
Emphasizes cross-ventilation strategies suited for Dubai's climate.

### Overview

Located in Dubai, the residential design prioritizes a harmonious integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, aligning with modern sustainability practices. The project focuses on maximizing natural light and ventilation while adhering to contemporary aesthetics and functional requirements. This innovative approach caters to urban living, where access to natural environments is increasingly limited.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The design features a two-level configuration that facilitates diverse spatial experiences. The first floor includes a garden area, serving both as a central focal point and a source of natural light, alongside a dining room that promotes social interaction with adjoining kitchen and living spaces. The living room is designed with expansive openings that enhance connections to the garden, creating a comfortable setting for relaxation and engagement with nature. On the second floor, the family room serves as a private retreat enriched by strategically positioned windows. The master bedroom includes practical amenities such as a walk-in closet and an en-suite bathroom, promoting both comfort and functionality.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration

The project employs a carefully curated material palette that balances aesthetic qualities with durability. Exposed brick walls add warmth and connect the interiors to the outdoor environment, while polished concrete floors provide a modern finish that reflects light and enhances spatial perception. Structural metal elements contribute strength and contemporary appeal. Importantly, vegetation is integrated throughout to improve air quality and visual appeal. The intentional use of large glass windows and skylights not only facilitates energy efficiency but also ensures that interiors are flooded with natural light, enhancing the overall living experience.

The design also incorporates unique features such as an indoor garden that functions as a ventilation system, promoting air circulation. Allocated spaces for future expansion illustrate adaptability within the layout, while cross-ventilation strategies are integrated to address the climatic challenges of the region. Notably, the deliberate minimalism of exterior windows prioritizes privacy and security without sacrificing the visual connection to the indoor gardens.

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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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