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Finees Composite Construction and Solar Glass Integration in a Courtyard Residence

Author:
Tara Fartash Naini
Finees Composite Construction and Solar Glass Integration in a Courtyard Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing a unique combination of Finees composite materials and solar glass, the design prioritizes sustainable living while creating an inviting central courtyard for family interactions in a residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Finees composite material derived from local desert sand for structural elements.
02
Incorporates solar glass to maximize natural light while enhancing energy efficiency.
03
Features multiple Majlis areas designed for diverse social interactions within a residential context.
04
Centers around a landscaped courtyard that promotes family engagement and cooling effects.
05
Employs 3D printing technology for construction components, reducing waste and labor costs.

### Project Overview
Located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the proposed residential project focuses on integrating local cultural elements with contemporary architectural practices. It aims to address the increasing demand for sustainable housing while honoring the familial and cultural context of Emirati society. Drawing inspiration from traditional Emirati architecture, the design employs advanced construction techniques, including 3D printing, and prioritizes the use of locally sourced materials.

### Spatial Configuration and User Interaction
The layout is centered around a courtyard, promoting a balance of privacy and communal living. This configuration features the ‘Majlis,’ a traditional gathering space that emphasizes the significance of family interactions within Emirati culture. The design supports a multi-generational living arrangement, reflecting contemporary social dynamics while fostering community engagement. The organization of interior spaces includes four bedrooms designed for privacy and varying configurations, as well as three distinct types of ‘Majlis’ areas facilitating both formal and informal gatherings.

### Material Selection and Environmental Considerations
The project incorporates innovative materials such as ‘Finees,’ a composite derived from desert sand, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional concrete. Solar glass is implemented to enhance energy efficiency by maximizing natural light. The use of 3D-printed components serves to lower construction costs and labor, aligning with future-focused building practices advocated by the Dubai Future Foundation. Vegetation and water features are also integrated to contribute to cooling, showcasing a harmonious relationship between the built environment and natural landscape.

### Climatic Adaptation
The design effectively responds to local climatic conditions by maximizing airflow through open Mashrabiyyas positioned along the building's east and west axes, reducing dependence on mechanical cooling systems. The strategic placement of vegetative elements further aids in achieving a cooler microclimate, thereby enhancing energy efficiency and overall inhabitant comfort.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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