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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Wind Towers in a Sustainable Residential Design

Author:
Filippo Catalfamo
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Wind Towers in a Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels and traditional wind towers, the design achieves optimal thermal efficiency while creating a harmonious residential space that respects cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Incorporates traditional wind towers for natural ventilation, optimizing indoor climate.
03
Features charred wooden shingles, promoting fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
04
Adopts a bent A-frame design that effectively captures natural light and enhances spatial dynamics.
05
Integrates outdoor courtyards, creating seamless transitions between interior and exterior spaces.

### Overview
The Dynamic House is situated in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where it seeks to establish a dialogue between historical and contemporary architectural traditions. The design responds to the region's evolving architectural landscape by incorporating modern principles of adaptability and sustainability while honoring the local cultural context.

### Spatial Strategy
The layout is organized into distinct functional zones that enhance both social interaction and privacy. Public and private areas, such as the Public Court and Reserved Court, reflect the social hierarchy prevalent in traditional Middle Eastern architecture. Linear corridors facilitate efficient circulation, promoting natural interactions among occupants. Outdoor spaces, including gardens and courtyards, are integral to the design, extending the living area and fostering connections with the environment through generous glass surfaces.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The choice of materials plays a crucial role in the project's identity. Laminated wood is utilized for framing and insulation, showcasing a commitment to sustainability. High-density insulation panels enhance thermal performance, while concrete ensures structural durability. The extensive use of glass optimizes natural light and minimizes reliance on artificial lighting, and stone is featured in the façade to create a tactile link with the landscape. Additionally, advanced ventilation strategies and solar panels contribute to energy self-sufficiency, reinforcing the project's focus on sustainable practices within the framework of modern architectural design.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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MICROHOME
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