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Geodesic Shelter With Modular Recycled Materials for Sustainable Living

Geodesic Shelter With Modular Recycled Materials for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with a geodesic structure and modular recycled materials, this sustainable living solution offers adaptive spaces that respond to the challenges of the UAE's climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geodesic dome structure enhances durability against extreme weather.
02
Modular design allows for flexible interior configurations.
03
Integration of Atmospheric Water Generators for self-sufficient water supply.
04
Recycled insulation material promotes eco-friendly construction practices.
05
Partially submerged levels utilize natural water for temperature regulation.

## Project Overview

Located in the United Arab Emirates, the Amphibian House is an architectural design intended to meet the specific requirements posed by the region's extreme climate. The project prioritizes eco-friendliness, modularity, and adaptability, aiming to develop a living environment that is both sustainable and responsive to contemporary housing challenges.

## Architectural Response

### Spatial Configuration

The Amphibian House utilizes a geodesic dome as its primary architectural form, which effectively distributes structural loads and provides expansive interiors without reliance on extensive support systems. This form is designed to withstand local weather conditions, including high winds and sandstorms. The project's spatial organization features a partially submerged Level 1, which aids in thermal regulation through water insulation. Interior areas are designed for multifunctionality, allowing residents to adapt their living space according to individual needs.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The design employs a variety of sustainable materials to enhance both performance and environmental responsibility. Key features include photovoltaic panels for renewable energy generation, changeable solid and glass panels made from recycled materials, and a double-layered roof system to improve insulation. Additionally, the integration of Atmospheric Water Generators (AWGs) ensures self-sufficiency in water supply by extracting moisture from the air. These materials and technologies work together to create a climate-responsive structure that minimizes energy consumption and utilizes renewable resources efficiently.

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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
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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
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