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Geometric Formations and Natural Stone Integration in Sustainable Desert Living

Authors:
Mostafa Ghaffari, Meagan Amanda Odell
Geometric Formations and Natural Stone Integration in Sustainable Desert Living

Project in-detail

Integrating triangular geometric forms with reinforced concrete and ample natural light, the design optimizes passive cooling strategies to create a sustainable family residence in a desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes triangular geometry to enhance structural stability and visual appeal.
02
Integrates wind towers to facilitate natural ventilation, reducing energy consumption.
03
Employs drought-resistant landscaping to minimize water usage in arid conditions.
04
Incorporates extensive glazing to maximize daylight while maintaining thermal efficiency.
05
Features reinforced concrete paired with natural stone for a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.

## Overview

Located in a desert region characterized by arid landscapes, the project integrates traditional architectural elements with contemporary design methodologies. The intent is to create a living environment that emphasizes sustainability, cultural relevance, and innovative spatial relationships, achieved through distinct geometrical forms and material selection.

## Geometric Organization

The design prominently features interlocking triangular shapes that symbolize strength and stability, drawing from historical architectural practices across various cultures. This geometric organization informs the spatial layout, delineating areas for private living, service functions, and formal gatherings. Circulation pathways are thoughtfully integrated to facilitate fluid movement while promoting social interactions, reflecting the significance of community in the cultural context of the residents.

### Materiality

The selection of materials prioritizes both performance and aesthetic qualities, contributing to the project's sustainability goals.

1. **Reinforced Concrete** provides structural stability and durability, essential for resilience in harsh climates.
2. **Extensive use of glass** enhances natural light penetration and thermal insulation, particularly in communal spaces.
3. **Natural stone** integrates with both landscaping and hardscaping, fostering visual and tactile connections to the landscape.
4. **Wood elements** throughout the interiors introduce warmth, counterbalancing the stark nature of concrete and glass.
5. **Metal detailing** serves both functional and aesthetic purposes in window treatments and roofs, supporting passive ventilation strategies.
6. **Sustainable composite materials** are used in fixtures to minimize the construction's environmental impact.

## Sustainability and Cultural Resonance

The design incorporates various sustainability features, such as natural ventilation systems, including strategically placed wind towers that enhance air circulation. This approach reduces dependence on mechanical cooling solutions. A comprehensive water management strategy integrates rainwater harvesting and irrigation systems, aligning with ecological considerations.

Culturally, the architecture resonates with local traditions through geometric patterns and thoughtful design details that reflect regional heritage. The layout and facade treatments contribute to a sense of identity among residents while encouraging interaction within communal spaces. Outdoor landscaping employs drought-resistant plants, ensuring environmental harmony and efficient water usage, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainability.

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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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