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Dual-Skin Facade Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in A Modular Residence

Authors:
Daniel Jonathan Flower, Pablo Morales Contreras, Kevin Pinon Lopez, Gerardo Ham Peralta
Dual-Skin Facade Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in A Modular Residence

Project in-detail

Constructed with a dual-skin facade utilizing cross-laminated timber panels, the residence adapts to its environment through modular pods that prioritize sustainability and community living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a dual-skin facade for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Utilizes locally sourced cross-laminated timber panels to reduce environmental impact.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for natural fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
04
Features modular pod design allowing for flexible living spaces.
05
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems within the architectural framework.
The Massif House is a residential architectural project designed to address the future housing needs of urban environments, specifically tailored for the context of Dubai. The project emphasizes sustainability and adaptability, responding to both environmental changes and evolving living patterns. By integrating a design that harmonizes with the local landscape, the Massif House offers a model for future domestic architecture.

Adaptive Housing Design

The Massif House features a modular layout composed of individual pods that serve distinct functions—community, food preparation, private living areas, and personal aspirations. This approach promotes a balance between communal interactions and the necessity for privacy, catering to diverse family dynamics. Each pod is intentionally designed with flexible spaces, allowing for a variety of activities and uses to adapt to changing circumstances over time.

The architectural design draws inspiration from the natural topography of Jebel Hafeet, echoing the region’s landscape through its geometric forms. The integration of local materials, including wood, stone, hay, and adobe, underscores the building’s connection to its environment. Notably, the double-skin facade incorporates glass with advanced thermal performance, facilitating natural light while maintaining energy efficiency.

Innovative Sustainable Strategies

The Massif House employs several innovative strategies to maximize sustainability. The structural design utilizes a lightweight metal framework and triangulated forms to maintain strength while minimizing resource use. Passive cooling techniques are harnessed through the careful placement of windows and ventilation pathways, effectively utilizing natural breezes characteristic of the region.

Additionally, the project implements rainwater harvesting systems, integrating water conservation into the fabric of the design. Landscape elements within the communal areas serve both ecological and aesthetic purposes, supporting biodiversity while offering recreation space for residents. This multifaceted approach ensures that the Massif House not only meets current residential needs but also anticipates future ecological challenges.

This analysis highlights the thoughtful architectural design and sustainable strategies employed in the Massif House. For those interested in further exploring the project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas, a comprehensive presentation is available for review.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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