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Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Featuring Smart Systems for Sustainable Desert Living

Author:
Ovidiu Cristian Pavel
Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Featuring Smart Systems for Sustainable Desert Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels and advanced energy systems, the design integrates seamlessly with its desert environment to create a flexible and self-sufficient living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes advanced Airgel insulation for optimal thermal performance in extreme climates.
02
Incorporates photovoltaic panels for renewable energy generation and self-sufficiency.
03
Features an adaptable interior design that allows for customizable living spaces.
04
Integrates greywater recycling systems to enhance water conservation.
05
Promotes community interaction with a central fire pit as a social gathering space.

### Overview

Located within the context of the United Arab Emirates, the project embodies principles of adaptability, sustainability, and environmental integration. Designed as a modular and self-sufficient dwelling, it addresses the evolving social dynamics of the region while fostering a connection to both the desert and urban environments. The 450-square-meter site serves as a platform for a flexible model of habitation, emphasizing the idea of mobile architecture to accommodate the varied lifestyles of its occupants.

### Spatial Configuration and User-Centric Design

The architecture features a modular interior, allowing for customizable layouts that can adapt to the changing preferences of residents. Interchangeable furniture modules support various functional needs and lifestyles, emphasizing the notion that living spaces can be redefined over time. The design includes automatic systems powered by solar energy, which respond to climatic conditions by adjusting shading devices intuitively, thereby enhancing thermal comfort. Additionally, outdoor spaces such as a central fire pit are integrated to foster community interaction and create inviting gathering areas reflective of desert culture.

### Material Selection and Environmental Strategies

Key materials selected for the project address the challenges posed by the UAE's arid climate while promoting energy efficiency. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels provide structural integrity and warmth, while aluminum reinforcements enhance durability. Superior thermal performance is achieved through the use of aerogel insulation, and photovoltaic panels enable the harnessing of solar energy for self-sufficiency. The building also features greywater recycling systems and an incineration toilet, contributing to its self-sustaining capabilities. The chosen materials and advanced technologies collectively facilitate a design that minimizes ecological impact while fostering a deeper relationship with the surrounding 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

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