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Fish Scale Facade Crafted From Photovoltaic Panels Meets Sustainable Living In A Desert Climate

Fish Scale Facade Crafted From Photovoltaic Panels Meets Sustainable Living In A Desert Climate

Project in-detail

A facade inspired by fish scales formed from integrated photovoltaic panels defines a home that seamlessly adapts to the desert climate while promoting energy efficiency and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Façade integrates photovoltaic panels designed to mimic fish scales for energy generation.
02
Ground-level open plan connects seamlessly with landscaped outdoor spaces.
03
Underground water reservoir enhances temperature regulation and supports sustainability.
04
Green roof design maximizes insulation and reduces thermal gain in a desert climate.
05
Strategically positioned overhangs provide shade while maintaining natural light indoors.

### Overview

Aqua Fin House is located in Dubai and represents a convergence of sustainable architecture and contemporary design principles. Inspired by the region’s rich aquatic heritage, the project is a response to both climatic and cultural contexts, showcasing an innovative design methodology rooted in environmental sensitivity. Conceived by architect Hager Magdy, the house draws on marine motifs, particularly the form of a fish, to create a structure that harmonizes with its surroundings.

### Spatial Strategy and Functionality

The interior layout of Aqua Fin House has been meticulously planned to enhance both functionality and comfort. The ground floor features an open-plan design that connects social spaces, such as the family living room, to outdoor gardens, fostering a strong link with nature. Service areas, including an underground water tank, are strategically positioned to maintain aesthetic continuity while ensuring effective utility management. Upstairs, the private quarters are segmented to provide privacy and panoramic views of the landscape, reinforcing the connection between indoor living and the natural environment.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The choice of materials within Aqua Fin House reflects a balance between aesthetic qualities and practical performance. The use of concrete provides structural durability, while large glass openings optimize natural light and promote visual engagement with outdoor spaces. Notable design elements include metal fish-scale panels that not only serve as a distinctive visual feature but also facilitate energy efficiency through solar energy capture. Additionally, the integration of a green roof and thoughtfully placed overhangs regulates internal temperatures, contributing to the building’s sustainable profile. Water management is enhanced by an underground reservoir that aids in temperature regulation, underscoring the commitment to conservation inherent in the project’s design.

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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

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
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