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Faceted Facade with Smart Glass and Energy-Efficient Design in a Vertical Mixed-Use Structure

Author:
Bogdan Chipara
Faceted Facade with Smart Glass and Energy-Efficient Design in a Vertical Mixed-Use Structure

Project in-detail

A twisting vertical structure clad in smart glass and aluminum creates a dynamic mixed-use environment that integrates residential, commercial, and communal spaces within a sustainably designed framework.
5 key facts about this project
01
Twisting form enhances wind resilience and structural stability.
02
Smart glass technology optimizes energy efficiency and natural lighting.
03
Public terraces integrate green spaces into a vertical design.
04
Mixed-use layout promotes community interaction and accessibility.
05
Faceted façade reduces heat gain while creating visual interest.

### Overview
Located in Dubai, the skyscraper design reflects the city's dynamic urban identity while incorporating contemporary architectural principles. The project integrates residential, commercial, and recreational spaces within a single structure, aiming to enhance the urban experience and promote connectivity among various functions. The design is informed by the surrounding desert landscape, translating natural forms into an innovative building that aligns with the cultural and environmental context of Dubai.

### Architectural Strategies
#### Form and Function
The skyscraper features a twisting and spiraling profile characterized by sleek lines and faceted surfaces. This distinct geometry not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also improves structural performance against wind forces characteristic of the region. The tapering elements and articulated facades emphasize verticality, creating visual dynamism that shifts throughout the day as natural light interacts with the building, particularly during sunrise and sunset.

#### Material Selection
Material choices are central to both the visual and functional aspects of the skyscraper. The design utilizes a combination of glass for transparency and reflection, steel for structural support, and aluminum for lightweight durability in facades. Reinforced concrete is employed in the foundational and core elements to ensure stability. Additionally, innovative materials such as smart glass or energy-efficient coatings are incorporated to advance sustainability goals, reducing energy consumption and enhancing occupant comfort. The façade design emphasizes environmental performance, optimizing daylight penetration while minimizing reliance on artificial lighting.

### Integration of Community and Technology
The project exemplifies compact urban design by accommodating a diverse mix of uses within a limited footprint, thereby minimizing urban sprawl. It incorporates smart city technologies to optimize resource management and improve the quality of urban life. The design also prioritizes the inclusion of public spaces, such as parks and gardens, encouraging social interaction among residents and visitors. The interplay of these elements contributes to a sense of community and enhances the overall urban fabric of Dubai.

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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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