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Dual-Skin Facade with Sustainable Cross-Laminated Timber and Efficient Solar Roof Design

Dual-Skin Facade with Sustainable Cross-Laminated Timber and Efficient Solar Roof Design
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The use of a dual-skin facade combined with sustainable cross-laminated timber and an integrated solar roof system creates a flexible and energy-efficient living environment designed to adapt to diverse household needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a dual-skin facade to enhance thermal performance and aesthetic flexibility.
02
Incorporates sustainable cross-laminated timber for structural integrity and rapid assembly.
03
Features an integrated solar roof system designed for off-grid energy efficiency.
04
Offers customizable facades tailored to individual resident preferences.
05
Employs charred wooden shingles for durability and low maintenance.

### Overview

Located in the United Arab Emirates, the housing project addresses contemporary challenges in residential construction, particularly focusing on balancing mass production with individual customization and sustainability. The design seeks to create a functional prototype for future housing solutions that emphasizes affordability and adaptability, responding effectively to the evolving needs of urban living.

### Spatial Configuration and Sustainability

The project features a modular design that allows for flexible configurations based on family size and specific requirements. This adaptability is visually represented through standardized blocks that can be easily expanded or reduced. A distinctive dual-skin facade offers aesthetic variety—residents can choose from traditional Emirati, Mediterranean, or modern exteriors. A uniquely shaped roof, engineered for solar energy generation, also provides shaded outdoor spaces, enhancing both the building’s functionality and its energy efficiency.

### Material Selection and Economic Viability

Materials selected for construction reflect a commitment to sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Eco-friendly wood-based composites and plant-based rigid foam insulation enhance thermal performance while being easily sourced and environmentally responsible. Durable galvanized steel serves as the primary structural element, accompanied by cross-linked polyethylene pipes, chosen for their resilience. Basic unit costs range from approximately 60,000 AED for off-grid settings to about 540,000 AED for comprehensive on-grid configurations, facilitating inclusivity and affordability across diverse demographic groups.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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