Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Geodesic Dome Crafted from Adobe and Textiles for Sustainable Desert Living

Authors:
Nilo-arieja Ravelomanantsoa, Sofiane Ouiddir
Geodesic Dome Crafted from Adobe and Textiles for Sustainable Desert Living

Project in-detail

Crafted with adobe and textile elements, this geodesic dome adapts to the desert climate while providing a functional space for community living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geodesic dome structure optimizes air circulation for natural cooling.
02
Utilizes local adobe for thermal mass and passive insulation.
03
Incorporates textile elements for shading without obstructing light.
04
Landscaped patios integrate indigenous plants to enhance biodiversity.
05
Design emphasizes communal spaces that foster social interaction.

### Project Overview
Located in a harsh desert environment, the design intends to create a microclimate that enhances comfort and livability. The central element of the project is a geodesic dome that serves as both a living space and a sustainable response to climatic challenges. By integrating aspects of modern architecture with references to Emirati heritage, the design addresses environmental considerations while allowing for aesthetic continuity.

### Structural and Spatial Strategy
The geodesic dome, covering a 450 m² area, employs a spherical shape to optimize natural ventilation, drawing air from beneath to maintain stable interior temperatures despite external seasonal extremes. The layout draws inspiration from traditional courtyard houses, creating a balance between privacy and social interaction. This internal organization facilitates outdoor living through landscaped patios, water features, and balconies that connect the interior to the surrounding environment.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Materials chosen for the structure reflect both functionality and local cultural aesthetics. Adobe is utilized for its thermal properties and durability, while textile extrusions provide shading and architectural interest. Expansive glass sections promote natural lighting and enhance interior views, contributing to the overall ambiance. Sustainable practices are evident in the design's natural ventilation system, which efficiently regulates temperatures, and integrated closed-loop water management systems that enhance moisture retention and promote biodiversity through indigenous landscaping. The project harmonizes with its ecosystem, exemplifying an approach that is both ecologically mindful and culturally responsive.

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