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Curvilinear Concrete Walls and Arabic Mosaic Patterns in Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Michal Trpák
Curvilinear Concrete Walls and Arabic Mosaic Patterns in Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

With its curvilinear concrete walls and intricate Arabic mosaic patterns, the design creates a contemporary family residence that harmonizes modern living with cultural heritage in an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
3D printed concrete walls enable complex geometric forms with reduced material waste.
02
Curvilinear design elements mimic organic shapes, enhancing natural airflow.
03
Intricate Arabic mosaic patterns incorporate traditional craftsmanship in modern context.
04
Central staircase serves as a sculptural feature connecting multiple levels.
05
Sustainable systems for energy and water management minimize environmental impact.

### Overview
Located in Dubai, the Rayhan house integrates traditional Arabic ornamentation with contemporary architectural methods. The design draws inspiration from natural forms, local geography, and cultural heritage, serving as both a functional residence and a reflection of the rich context in which it is situated. The name "Rayhan," meaning "basil" in Arabic, encapsulates the organic qualities inherent in the design.

### Spatial Configuration
The architectural layout is inspired by the forms of flowers, resulting in a structure characterized by curved walls and a multi-functional spatial strategy. Various living areas, dining rooms, and private quarters have been designed to foster connection while maintaining privacy. A central staircase, designed to resemble a stem, provides vertical circulation and leads to terraces that facilitate interaction with the surrounding environment.

### Material Selection and Technological Features
Key materials include 3D printed concrete for the walls, allowing intricate geometries while minimizing waste, and laser-cut steel components that enhance both the aesthetic quality and structural integrity of the design. Sustainability is further prioritized through the incorporation of solar panels, water recycling systems, and eco-friendly paints. The use of glass windows maximizes natural light and offers views of the exterior landscape, while interior ceramic tiles reflect local craftsmanship and provide durability. These technological integrations collectively contribute to an efficient, modern living environment, emphasizing energy conservation and ecological responsibility.

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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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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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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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