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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wood Accents Define A Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Khadija Ali Mohammed Al-kaf, Dalal Ibrahim A Albassam, Jumanah rayan m Qutub, Lujain Rayan M Qutub
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wood Accents Define A Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels and charred wood accents, the design creates a harmonious community hub that emphasizes sustainability while fostering social connections.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles that provide natural fire resistance while adding texture to the facade.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes interior space and natural light diffusion.
04
Integrates green roofs that promote biodiversity and improve insulation.
05
Includes community spaces designed for flexible use, encouraging social interactions among diverse users.

### Project Overview
Located in Dubai, the "Acropora: House of the Future" project explores themes of sustainability and adaptability in residential architecture. Drawing from the region's cultural and environmental context, the design meets contemporary living requirements while remaining responsive to future needs and environmental changes. The name "Acropora," inspired by a genus of coral, reflects the resilience and dynamic nature of both the home and its surroundings.

### Materiality and Construction Techniques
This residence prominently features rammed earth, which offers natural insulation and thermal mass, thereby reducing dependence on mechanical cooling systems in Dubai’s arid climate. The incorporation of wood in doors and structural elements adds warmth and tactile interaction to the living spaces. By utilizing natural materials, the design fosters a connection between the built environment and nature, aligning with biophilic principles that enhance overall well-being.

### Spatial Organization and Architectural Elements
The interior layout supports an open plan that facilitates movement and social interaction while providing distinct private and communal areas. Key spaces include a majlis, living and dining areas, and adaptable rooms for various uses. Outdoor integration is a key aspect, with gardens and patios that encourage connection to the environment. Traditional wind catchers are incorporated for natural ventilation, while flexible louvers allow occupants to control light and airflow, reinforcing the theme of adaptability. Coral-patterned screens provide privacy and aesthetic appeal, echoing local marine life and contributing to the home's distinctive character.

The project emphasizes sustainability in response to local challenges, integrating renewable energy solutions such as solar panels, enhancing its ecological footprint while remaining contextually relevant and economically viable for middle-class families in Dubai.

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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
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