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Curvilinear Masonry Panels and Xeriscaped Landscapes in Desert-Compatible Residential Design

Author:
Drew Michael Gilbert
Curvilinear Masonry Panels and Xeriscaped Landscapes in Desert-Compatible Residential Design

Project in-detail

Curvilinear masonry panels and a drought-tolerant landscape define a residential structure that harmonizes with its desert environment while offering both communal and private living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear masonry panels enhance both aesthetics and thermal performance in the desert climate.
02
Xeriscaped landscaping minimizes water usage while providing natural beauty and habitat.
03
A central light shaft optimizes natural illumination throughout the living spaces.
04
Integration of drought-resistant materials aligns with local environmental conditions.
05
Open layout promotes fluid movement between communal and private areas, fostering interaction.

## Overview

Located in a desert region characterized by dramatic mountain scenery and natural water features, the project responds to contemporary living demands while remaining sensitive to its environmental context. The design seeks to create a synthesis of aesthetic and practical considerations, emphasizing the balance between modern technologies and local cultural narratives.

## Spatial Strategy

The spatial organization is thoughtfully arranged to facilitate both communal interactions and private retreats. The ground floor features open living areas that maximize natural light through expansive windows, supporting social engagement. In contrast, the first floor is dedicated to more secluded spaces, including master and guest bedrooms, organized around a central corridor that promotes accessibility and flow. The integration of an outdoor swimming area and landscaped gardens further blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing user experience through visual and physical connectivity with the surrounding nature.

## Materiality and Construction

Material selection plays a crucial role in the project, focusing on sustainability and local resources. Smart wall masonry panels are utilized for their thermal performance and lightweight characteristics, ensuring compliance with local building standards. The incorporation of drought-resistant xeriscaping in the landscaping underscores a commitment to environmental responsibility. The exterior features a combination of textured local stone and stucco finishes, designed to resonate with the regional aesthetic while providing durability. Additionally, strategies such as solar energy collectors and natural ventilation mechanisms are integrated to optimize energy efficiency and reduce the overall environmental footprint.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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