Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Dynamic Geometry and Natural Ventilation Through Structural Insulated Panels in Sustainable Living

Authors:
Tasneem Abdelrahman Osman Bashir, Rania Abdelrahman Osman Bashir
Dynamic Geometry and Natural Ventilation Through Structural Insulated Panels in Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Employing structural insulated panels and a dynamic geometric form, the design maximizes natural ventilation and thermal efficiency while providing a contemporary family residence in Dubai's challenging climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes structural insulated panels for enhanced energy efficiency and thermal performance.
02
Incorporates traditional air-catchers to promote passive cooling in the arid climate.
03
Features a dynamic geometric layout that maximizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Integrates local material patterns, reflecting cultural heritage in the design.
05
Employs smart technology for energy management and sustainable resource use.

### Overview
Located in Dubai, the Vibrant Future Home addresses the unique challenges posed by the region's extreme climate and rapid urbanization, proposing a modern residential solution that prioritizes sustainability and livability. The design integrates advanced technologies and environmental considerations, aiming to create a harmonious living environment that reflects cultural context.

### Spatial Strategy
The layout features a thoughtful arrangement of spaces across two levels, promoting functionality and connectivity. The ground floor accommodates communal areas, such as the kitchen, dining, and living rooms, fostering interaction among residents, while also incorporating a guest room and utility spaces for enhanced accessibility. The first floor provides privacy with dedicated bedrooms, ensuring a distinct separation from communal zones. This organization allows for adaptive use of space, with provisions for future expansions to accommodate evolving family needs.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The home utilizes a blend of modern materials and traditional influences to achieve both aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) create an energy-efficient envelope, while a careful selection of local materials pays homage to cultural heritage. Notably, the integration of traditional patterns, such as palm frond motifs on architectural features, reinforces cultural lineage. The design includes substantial glass elements that facilitate natural light and ventilation while maintaining structural integrity. Furthermore, passive design strategies—such as solar shading and water recycling systems—enhance overall energy performance and resource conservation, positioning the home as a model for sustainable living.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy