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Digitally Knitted Fabric and Local Stone Create A Sustainable Oasis in An Arid Landscape

Author:
Marc Paulin
Digitally Knitted Fabric and Local Stone Create A Sustainable Oasis in An Arid Landscape

Project in-detail

Digitally knitted fabric and local stone converge to create a shaded oasis that efficiently moderates climate conditions, serving as a contemporary residence in the arid landscape of the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes digitally knitted fabric for shading, enhancing durability and reducing maintenance.
02
Incorporates locally sourced sandstone and limestone to minimize environmental impact.
03
Features a central oasis with water elements providing natural cooling in a desert climate.
04
Includes a dune structure that mitigates heat while creating engaging outdoor spaces.
05
Showcases an open layout that promotes seamless interaction between indoor and outdoor living.

### Overview

Moon Project 1 is located in the arid landscape of the United Arab Emirates, designed as a cube-shaped villa that synthesizes traditional architectural forms with contemporary sustainable practices. The concept of a “Permanent Oasis” underpins its design, aiming to create a refuge of comfort and sustainability in the desert environment. By intertwining cultural heritage, environmental sensitivity, and advanced technology, the villa serves both as a residential space and a model for future developments in challenging climates.

### Design Principles and Spatial Configuration

The villa's architectural layout includes several interconnected elements that enhance user experience and promote tranquility. At its core, The Cube serves as the main living space, characterized by a height of 17.5 meters and a generous 265 m² of area, allowing for ample natural light and airflow. The Oasis, a shaded outdoor area supplemented with palm trees and a pool, mirrors the characteristics of traditional oases and contributes to microclimate management. Additionally, The Dune acts as a sun barrier and an aesthetic feature, while The Panorama Terrace fosters a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living. Water channels feed into The Island, an innovative aspect of the design that enhances natural cooling and connection to the environment.

### Material Selection and Technological Features

The project emphasizes sustainability through its choice of locally sourced materials, including sandstone and limestone, which echo the region's geological landscape while minimizing construction carbon footprint. Digitally knitted fabric is employed for The Curtain, promoting low-maintenance solutions, while hardwood is utilized in the roof structure for both aesthetic and functional benefits. Technologically, the design incorporates PV solar panels for clean energy production, advanced MEP systems for efficient water management and air quality control, and smart navigation systems to enhance connectivity throughout the property. Collectively, these elements contribute to a residential environment that aligns with the principles of sustainability and modern living.

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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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