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Curved Edges and Polished Concrete Unite in a Sustainable Desert Home

Author:
Reuben Paul Robotham
Curved Edges and Polished Concrete Unite in a Sustainable Desert Home

Project in-detail

Incorporating curved edges and polished concrete within a sustainable framework, this residential design effectively harmonizes modern aesthetics with solar technology to create a functional family home in the desert environment of Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a heat recovery system for enhanced energy efficiency.
02
Utilizes expansive glazing for optimal natural light throughout the interiors.
03
Features curved edges to improve aerodynamics and visual appeal.
04
Designed with a focus on sustainable technologies such as solar panel glazing.
05
Includes a flexible layout that prioritizes communal living and privacy.

### Overview

Located in Al Quoz 4, Dubai, this contemporary residential design serves as a competition entry aimed at integrating modern aesthetics with sustainable technology. The project emphasizes a responsive approach to the environment and the needs of its inhabitants, creating a functional dwelling that promotes interaction and engagement within a carefully curated living space.

### Spatial Arrangement and Functionality

The architectural layout comprises two distinct levels. The ground floor features an open-plan kitchen and living room, facilitating social interaction, alongside four bedrooms and essential utility spaces including a storage area and servant quarters. The first floor contains an additional four bedrooms, guest accommodations, and bathrooms. The continuity of space throughout the design fosters communal living and discourages compartmentalization, ensuring ample connectivity between different areas.

### Material Application and Environmental Considerations

Key materials utilized in the design include polished concrete for structural integrity and a sleek modern finish, expansive glass panels to enhance transparency and natural light infiltration, and sheer fabric curtains that offer privacy while maintaining views. The building's form also incorporates soft, curved edges, distinguishing it from traditional angular designs. Technological advancements such as a heat recovery system and solar panel glazing are integral to enhancing energy efficiency. Additionally, advanced heating and cooling systems have been incorporated to ensure year-round comfort in Dubai's climate.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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