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Curved Roof and Local Stone Integration in a Sustainable Family Villa

Author:
Aissa Zine
Curved Roof and Local Stone Integration in a Sustainable Family Villa

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced stone and a curved roof design, the villa seamlessly integrates with its landscape while providing a sustainable living environment for a modern family.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced light-colored bricks for thermal efficiency and natural insulation.
02
Features a distinctive curved roof that enhances solar shading and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates extensive outdoor terraces integrated with native flora for biodiversity.
04
Employs passive ventilation strategies to optimize airflow throughout the living spaces.
05
Maximizes natural light with strategically placed windows maintaining resident privacy.

## Project Overview
The project involves the design of a contemporary villa situated in a region characterized by sandy terrain and mountainous landscapes, likely within a Middle Eastern context. The design aims to create a residential space that connects thoughtfully with its natural surroundings while integrating elements of local cultural heritage.

## Design Intent and Spatial Strategy
The conceptual framework is grounded in a vision of harmony between the built environment and nature. Incorporating principles of vernacular architecture, the design articulates a balance between contemporary living and traditional values of privacy and community. The villa promotes a fluid interaction between indoor and outdoor areas, prioritizing user experience and emotional comfort through strategic spatial arrangements. Open floor plans foster movement and social interaction, while expansive windows and skylights optimize natural light and ventilation.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The villa's exterior is defined by a minimalist aesthetic, primarily utilizing locally sourced light-colored bricks that offer both thermal insulation and reflectivity to manage heat gain. Local stone features prominently in the interior, providing textural depth and a visual connection to the landscape. Wood elements in flooring and furnishings contribute warmth and comfort. Sustainability is emphasized through the incorporation of energy-efficient systems, such as passive cooling techniques, natural ventilation methods, and the use of solar panels integrated into the roof design. Green terraces enhance biodiversity and establish a lush environment that softens the architectural form.

## Interior Composition
The interior spaces exemplify a commitment to biophilic design, integrating strategically placed plants to foster a connection with nature. Thoughtfully curated furnishings, characterized by soft lines and natural colors, create a relaxing atmosphere. The design ensures optimal light and airflow, underscoring the importance of privacy while creating a visually comfortable environment. Overall, the combination of local materials and innovative design strategies establishes a residence that is functional, aesthetically pleasing, and responsive to its geographical and cultural context.

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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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