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Curved Glass and Recycled Concrete Create Sustainable Living in a Desert Environment

Authors:
Diego Xavier Ordonez Holguin, Bernardo Roberto Bustamante PatiÑo
Curved Glass and Recycled Concrete Create Sustainable Living in a Desert Environment

Project in-detail

Utilizing curved glass elements and recycled concrete, this dwelling adapts to the arid climate through natural ventilation and a central courtyard, creating a sustainable living environment for families in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central courtyard designed to maximize natural light and airflow.
02
Utilizes recycled concrete bricks as a sustainable building material.
03
Curved glass facades enhance views while maintaining residents' privacy.
04
Innovative underfloor cooling system reduces reliance on air conditioning.
05
Graywater recycling system integrated for efficient water management.

## Project Overview

Located in Dubai's arid desert context, the House of the Future reflects a design initiative focused on integrating sustainable practices with contemporary living standards while acknowledging cultural significance. The intent is to create a residence that harmonizes with its environment by prioritizing ecological responsibility and enhancing the quality of life for its inhabitants.

### Spatial Strategy and User Flexibility

Central to the design is an open floor plan that facilitates fluid movement between spaces, promoting interaction among residents. The organization around a central patio provides both a natural focal point and a functional area that enhances ventilation and brings nature indoors. Rooms can be reconfigured to adapt to evolving family needs, fostering versatility in use and maximizing the livable area.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project employs a thoughtful selection of materials that emphasize durability and environmental responsibility. Concrete provides structural integrity, while recycled concrete bricks reinforce the commitment to sustainability. Curved glass elements optimize natural lighting and maintain visual connectivity with the exterior. Additionally, the use of wood in the lattice frameworks contributes warmth and functionality as a natural shading device. Key sustainability features include graywater recycling systems, rainwater harvesting, and solar panels, collectively supporting an environmentally conscious design approach.

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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
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Chair
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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