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Cylindrical Home Embracing Traditional Weaving Through Natural Clay and Timber Elements

Author:
Hesham Younis
Cylindrical Home Embracing Traditional Weaving Through Natural Clay and Timber Elements

Project in-detail

Rooted in traditional weaving techniques, the cylindrical structure utilizes natural clay and timber to create a sustainable living space that fosters community and connection in a desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cylindrical form integrates traditional Bedouin weaving inspirations into its layout.
02
Natural clay bricks used for sustainable thermal performance tailored to local climate.
03
Curvilinear walls enhance spatial fluidity and community interaction within the home.
04
Modular design allows adaptability for changing family dynamics over time.
05
Incorporation of greywater reuse systems supports environmental sustainability efforts.

### Overview

Sadu House is situated within the diverse desert landscape of the UAE, representing a synthesis of contemporary architectural practices and traditional Emirati cultural expressions, particularly the Bedouin weaving technique known as "Sadu." The design intent emphasizes a reconnection to heritage while accommodating modern living requirements, resulting in a structure that fosters familial bonds and environmental engagement through adaptive spatial strategies.

### Spatial Adaptability

The architectural concept behind Sadu House is informed by principles of adaptability and family connectivity, mirroring the fluidity of traditional nomadic living. The design incorporates the notions of "Push," "Split," and "Connect," facilitating interactions between spaces and promoting functional flexibility. These approaches ensure the dwelling can evolve in response to dynamic household needs, thus reflecting the essence of a home that can adapt over time, akin to the transitory nature of previous nomadic lifestyles.

### Material Integration and Sustainable Practices

The exterior features a distinctive cylindrical tower that translates traditional weaving patterns into a contemporary form, complemented by a facade of clay brick and modern glazing that honors local craftsmanship. The design strategically incorporates PV-coated polyester membranes, enhancing both shade provision and aesthetic appeal. Inside, thoughtful choices such as curved walls and natural materials, including lime plastering, natural stone, and timber, foster a warm atmosphere while promoting energy efficiency through optimized natural light.

Sadu House also prioritizes sustainable design through modular construction techniques that facilitate future expansions, greywater reuse systems, and earth-sheltering strategies. The use of locally sourced materials furthers an environmentally-conscious approach, aligning with initiatives that support biodiversity within the desert context. This combination of thoughtful material use and sustainable practices underscores the commitment to a design that is both functional and respectful of its cultural and environmental surroundings.

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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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