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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Integrating Natural Cooling in Semi-Detached Residential Design

Authors:
Gaetano Paternostro, Grazia Tornatora
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Integrating Natural Cooling in Semi-Detached Residential Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels and self-shading blocks, the design maximizes natural ventilation while fostering community interaction in a semi-detached residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes self-shading blocks to optimize sunlight control and thermal comfort.
02
Incorporates a traditional wind tower for natural ventilation and air circulation.
03
Features a communal garden space that encourages social interaction among residents.
04
Employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
05
Integrates renewable energy systems, including photovoltaic panels and wind turbines.

## Overview
Located in the United Arab Emirates, the Regener-House project is an architectural initiative that aims to integrate environmental sustainability with cultural responsiveness. The design addresses the region's extreme heat and humidity while encouraging a sense of community and well-being. By incorporating advanced energy-saving techniques and modern technology, the project seeks to create a living environment that aligns with contemporary architectural trends.

## Cultural Context and Aesthetic Expression
Drawing inspiration from traditional Emirati architectural forms, the design adapts the semi-detached house typology to reflect the cultural identity of the UAE. This approach fosters a sense of place through innovative spatial configurations and material choices. The external design features rounded, dome-like structures and vertical elements that recall the imagery of traditional fortresses, while providing effective shading and ventilation. The interplay of local materials and color palettes further enhances its connection to the Emirati landscape.

## Sustainable Design Strategies
The Regener-House employs multiple sustainable solutions aimed at reducing its ecological footprint. A water collection system harnesses atmospheric moisture for reuse within the home, while natural ventilation is facilitated by architectural features such as a wind tower and extensive openings that promote cross-ventilation. The integration of photovoltaic panels and vertical wind turbines not only harness renewable energy but also enables a degree of energy independence. This combination of strategies enhances both the environmental performance and the quality of life for residents, promoting a healthier living environment.

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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

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
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