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Fluid Forms with Natural Timber Facades Embracing Desert Sustainability

Author:
Mohammad Almehtab
Fluid Forms with Natural Timber Facades Embracing Desert Sustainability

Project in-detail

With a fluid architectural form crafted from wooden facades and sustainable energy solutions, the residence seamlessly integrates into the desert landscape while promoting family living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems to support sustainable water use.
05
Includes an inner courtyard to enhance privacy and promote indoor-outdoor living.

**Overview**
Located in Dubai, the residence known as "Sand Shift" integrates traditional Arabian design elements with contemporary architectural practices. The intention behind the design is to respect cultural heritage while addressing modern sustainability needs. This project reflects a contextual understanding of the desert environment, with an emphasis on creating a living space that merges aesthetic appeal and ecological responsibility.

**Spatial and Functional Design**
The layout of "Sand Shift" is characterized by a sophisticated interplay of open and private spaces, allowing for both communal gatherings and intimate retreats. The architectural form draws inspiration from traditional Gulf styles while incorporating modern features; this results in a balanced silhouette that promotes a fluid interaction between the interior and the exterior. Key design elements, such as the heritage-inspired roof that features wind turbines and water-harvesting technologies, exemplify a commitment to functionality and aesthetic integrity. The strategic positioning of wooden facades enhances natural ventilation and provides essential shading, while carefully placed openings ensure privacy without sacrificing natural light.

**Sustainable Strategies**
The project underscores a robust approach to sustainability, incorporating various technologies to minimize its environmental impact. Atmospheric water harvesting systems allow for the collection of potable water from humidity, complemented by advanced wastewater management solutions for non-potable uses. Energy efficiency is prioritized through the installation of solar panels and wind turbines, significantly reducing reliance on external energy sources. Innovative agriculture techniques, including soil-less farming and symbiotic systems, not only optimize space but also promote biodiversity. The thoughtful selection of materials, such as locally sourced wood, durable concrete, and transparent glass, further supports the project's sustainable ethos while enhancing its architectural expression.

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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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