Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Bamboo Cladding in Sustainable Residential Community Design

Author:
SÉbastien StÉphane Nichele
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Bamboo Cladding in Sustainable Residential Community Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels and bamboo cladding, the design establishes a sustainable residential community that harmonizes with its environment while promoting efficient living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
A bent A-frame structure optimizes internal space while integrating natural light.
04
Bamboo cladding is utilized to promote sustainability and local material use.
05
The layout includes communal gardens to encourage community interaction among residents.

## Overview

Located in Dubai, this architectural design aims to provide a sustainable living solution that harmoniously integrates traditional desert architecture with modern technological advancements. The project seeks to embody principles of resource efficiency and adaptability, responding contextually to the local environment while honoring the cultural heritage of the region.

## Design Philosophy & Adaptation

The design approach emphasizes the relationship between historical architectural styles and contemporary needs. By utilizing local materials and construction methods, the project showcases a commitment to sustainability while acknowledging the cultural practices of the Emirates. Key aspects include modular design, which allows for flexible living configurations adaptable to the changing needs of families, and architectural features engineered to combat the region's climate challenges through natural ventilation and sun shading techniques.

## Materiality & Construction Techniques

A diverse array of locally sourced materials underpins the construction strategy. Prefabricated wooden panels, designed using 3D printing technology, and renewable timber mass slabs enhance structural integrity and thermal insulation. Natural stone and textiles contribute to the aesthetic while also assisting in temperature regulation. Bamboo elements are utilized for both structural and aesthetic purposes, linking the building to traditional practices. Architectural features such as louver systems and cross-ventilation strategies further improve energy efficiency and comfort by managing solar exposure and facilitating natural airflow throughout the space.

The layout consists of distinct zones that promote communal living yet ensure privacy within individual areas. The ground floor facilitates interaction with shared spaces, while the first floor prioritizes personal retreats, ensuring a seamless connection between the living environments and the natural surroundings.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy