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Curvilinear Form Embracing Local Stone and Natural Ventilation in Sustainable Desert Housing

Author:
Ioana-claudia Dumitrașc
Curvilinear Form Embracing Local Stone and Natural Ventilation in Sustainable Desert Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced stone and hydrophilic coatings, this sustainable residential design incorporates curvilinear forms that enhance natural ventilation, optimally functioning in a harsh desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes hydrophilic coatings for efficient rainwater harvesting.
02
Incorporates curvilinear forms to reduce wind resistance.
03
Employs locally sourced stone to minimize transportation impact.
04
Design allows for flexible interior configurations based on resident needs.
05
Features natural ventilation systems optimized for desert climate.

## Overview

KAWAHID is an architectural project designed to address the unique challenges of the UAE's desert environment while prioritizing sustainable living. Located in a landscape characterized by arid conditions, the design seeks to create a harmonious relationship between its occupants and the ecosystem. The approach integrates functionality with aesthetic considerations, reflecting the cultural context of the region through its architectural language.

## Spatial Strategy and Cultural Reflection

The project's spatial strategy is defined by a curvilinear form that echoes the natural contours of the desert. This design not only responds to environmental factors such as wind and thermal conditions but also incorporates elements of traditional Islamic architecture, fostering community through intricate patterns and forms. The adaptive interior layout prioritizes open and flexible spaces, allowing for multifunctional living arrangements that accommodate varying user needs.

## Material Innovation and Sustainability

KAWAHID employs locally sourced stone and eco-friendly materials, which not only minimize transportation emissions but also integrate seamlessly with the local environment. Hydrophilic coatings have been utilized to enhance water collection capabilities, which are critical for resource management in harsh climates. The selected materials align with sustainability goals by ensuring low energy consumption and maintaining visual coherence with the surrounding landscape. The integration of solar panels designed as elements of the architecture further demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency, offering customizable solutions for residents.

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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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