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Dual-Roof Design Featuring Steel Frames and Natural Stone in a Mountain Micro-Home

Author:
Mohammed Islam Hamdi Elghoneimy
Dual-Roof Design Featuring Steel Frames and Natural Stone in a Mountain Micro-Home

Project in-detail

A dual-roof structure with steel frames and natural stone integrates seamlessly into the mountainous landscape, offering a compact micro-home designed for sustainable living and panoramic views.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dual-roof structure enhances thermal performance and rainwater management.
02
Large panoramic windows optimize natural light and mountain views.
03
Steel framing allows for a lightweight and durable construction.
04
Natural stone façade seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape.
05
Compact design promotes energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

## Overview

The DAR micro-home, designed for mountainous environments, emphasizes a compact footprint while fostering a connection with the natural landscape. The project embraces the concept of home, represented by the Arabic term "DAR," and aims to create an architectural response to the surrounding terrain that prioritizes user experience and environmental sensitivity.

## Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The design features a unique spatial organization across three tiers, promoting interaction and function differentiation. The ground floor consists of an open living area, kitchen, and dining space, designed for communal activities. The first floor accommodates private spaces, including a bedroom and bathroom, facilitating a transition from shared to individual areas. A terrace on the second floor enhances outdoor connectivity while providing sweeping views of the mountains.

## Materiality and Sustainability

Key materials include concrete for structural integrity, expansive glass for maximizing natural light and views, and natural stone for aesthetic appeal. Steel frames contribute to a lightweight structure, while advanced construction methods—such as Evolution Wall Panels and triple-glazed windows—enhance energy efficiency and thermal insulation. The design incorporates a passive ventilation system for improved air circulation and a dual-roof system that integrates solar panels, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. Strategically placed overhangs create shaded outdoor areas while preserving the natural landscape.

The configuration of the units allows for easy replication, encouraging community development without compromising individual residential experiences. This approach balances contemporary design with ecological considerations, establishing a model for future residential projects in similar terrains.

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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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