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Curved Glass Panels and Sustainable Wood in a Multi-Functional Family Residence

Author:
Eugeniu Prodan
Curved Glass Panels and Sustainable Wood in a Multi-Functional Family Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing a curved glass façade and sustainable wood materials, this family residence integrates private living spaces with expansive communal areas, focusing on both aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a curved glass façade to enhance natural light while promoting energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for improved durability and unique aesthetic appeal.
04
Integrates large outdoor spaces directly connected to communal living areas.
05
Employs a flexible layout allowing adaptation for various family needs and activities.

### Overview

Located in the United Arab Emirates, the House of the Future provides a contemporary residential solution that integrates innovative technologies, cultural sensitivity, and sustainable design principles. This project aims to create a living environment that reflects the ideals of modern Emirati society while respecting local traditions. Its distinctive architectural language and thoughtful spatial organization promote a harmonious coexistence of private and communal spaces.

### Spatial Strategy and Functional Design

The layout of the house is structured into distinct zones, enhancing both functionality and user experience. The ground floor features an open-plan living area comprising the kitchen, dining room, and living room, which are designed to facilitate interaction and provide a direct connection to the outdoor garden through expansive windows. The upper level contains seven individual bedrooms, each with adjacent bathrooms and dressing areas, ensuring privacy for residents while maintaining communal aspects on the lower floor. Additional support spaces, including a pantry and laundry, are strategically integrated to optimize utility.

Flexible features are embedded within the design, with alternative floor plan options that accommodate varied lifestyles. For instance, the inclusion of spaces such as a playroom or technical room allows residents to tailor the functionality of the home according to changing needs.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The materials utilized in the construction of the House of the Future are carefully chosen to reflect both sophistication and environmental consideration. A combination of concrete for structural integrity, wood for warmth, and large glass panels enhances natural light and visual connectivity with the outdoors. Advanced insulation materials contribute to energy efficiency, while finishes incorporate both modern and traditional textures to resonate with local aesthetics.

The project emphasizes sustainability with the incorporation of solar panels and wind turbines to harness renewable energy. Additionally, a greywater recycling system supports sustainable water use, further solidifying the building's commitment to reducing its ecological footprint. The roof design, featuring innovative curved profiles, aids in energy conservation by optimizing thermal dynamics within the structure.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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