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Cross-Laminated Timber Structure With Sustainable Shading Systems For Climate Adaptation

Authors:
Khashayar Khastoui, Mahyar Eghdamian, Mehrdad Sakhi, Morvarid Pourgholam
Cross-Laminated Timber Structure With Sustainable Shading Systems For Climate Adaptation

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and innovative shading systems, the design effectively addresses the harsh climate of the UAE while providing a family-oriented residential space that harmonizes indoor comfort with outdoor connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and fire safety.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Integrates smart home technology for seamless control of climate and security.
05
Employs traditional Al-Sadu patterns in architectural detailing to reflect cultural heritage.

## Project Overview

The House of the Future is situated in the United Arab Emirates, where its design reflects a careful consideration of the local climate, cultural context, and emerging lifestyle needs. This residence aims to harmonize contemporary living with traditional values, addressing the challenges posed by high humidity and heat while fostering a nurturing environment for families, particularly children.

### Structural and Material Considerations

The building employs mass timber for its structural components, chosen for its environmental sustainability and low thermal expansion, making it suitable for the region's climate. Key architectural features include a triangular roofline and overhangs that provide shade. Frosted glass partitions enhance privacy while allowing natural light, and tinted glass in windows minimizes glare. Complementary materials, such as concrete for the foundation and ceramic tiles for wet areas, support overall stability and temperature regulation.

### Spatial Configuration and Environmental Responsiveness

The design optimizes air circulation through strategic spatial organization, with living areas positioned to maximize natural light and cross-ventilation. The living room serves as a communal hub with flexible design, while bedrooms ensure privacy and direct access to outdoor spaces. Utility areas are efficiently integrated to enhance functionality. Inspired by traditional Al-Sadu weaving patterns, the architecture incorporates features that facilitate light play and ventilation, improving energy efficiency and user comfort. The surrounding landscape includes a swimming pool, garden areas, and walking paths that foster outdoor engagement while maintaining privacy.

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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
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The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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