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Geometric Cutouts and One-Way Glass in a Sustainable Villa of Natural Stone and Timber

Author:
Robert J F Collette
Geometric Cutouts and One-Way Glass in a Sustainable Villa of Natural Stone and Timber

Project in-detail

With geometric cutouts and natural stone textures, the villa utilizes one-way glass and timber to create a seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, serving as a private residence in the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geometric cutouts in the facade optimize natural light while maintaining privacy.
02
One-way glass enhances views without compromising interior comfort.
03
Natural stone finishes connect the villa with its desert environment.
04
Timber cladding provides thermal insulation and aesthetic warmth.
05
Sustainable water management systems reduce environmental impact.

### Overview
Villa 7even is located in the UAE, where modern architectural practices intersect with traditional Emirati culture. The project emphasizes a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the surrounding desert landscape, integrating geometric forms with a sensitivity to the natural context.

### Facade and Materiality
The exterior features white rendered walls that reflect the intense desert light, creating a striking visual identity. Geometric cutouts are strategically incorporated to enhance airflow and allow natural light penetration, serving both aesthetic and functionality. Large glass facades establish a strong connection with the environment, facilitating expansive views and embedding a sense of transparency within the design.

### Sustainable Design Features
The villa incorporates an advanced sustainable design approach, featuring solar panels that utilize the region's abundant sunlight to enhance energy efficiency. Water management systems are effectively integrated to minimize waste, while natural ventilation points are designed to optimize indoor air quality. This sustainable framework not only supports environmental conservation but also contributes to a healthier living space.

### Interior Layout and Spatial Organization
Interior spaces are thoughtfully organized to balance functionality with luxury. Open plan living areas encourage social interaction and communal gatherings, while high-quality fixtures create an inviting atmosphere. The careful arrangement of rooms ensures privacy and facilitates fluid movement throughout the home, accommodating both family dynamics and individual comfort.

### Unique Design Features
Innovative one-way windows allow residents to enjoy panoramic views while maintaining privacy from the exterior. The design also includes generous living areas that are conducive to social events. Outdoor features such as a swimming pool and landscaped gardens extend the living space, reinforcing the connection with nature and enhancing the overall residential experience.

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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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