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Geothermal Ventilation And Recycled Concrete Create A Sustainable Urban Oasis

Author:
Joseph Skaff
Geothermal Ventilation And Recycled Concrete Create A Sustainable Urban Oasis

Project in-detail

Utilizing recycled concrete and incorporating geothermal ventilation, the design creates an energy-efficient living space that harmonizes with its urban surroundings while enhancing community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled concrete for ecological sustainability.
02
Incorporates geothermal ventilation for energy efficiency.
03
Features a central axial "oasis" for enhanced light and air flow.
04
Integrates traditional wind towers for natural cooling.
05
Design allows for future adaptability according to family needs.

**Overview**
Located in an urban environment reminiscent of North American townhouse neighborhoods, the design aims to redefine residential architecture by integrating aspects of traditional Emirati style while promoting sustainability. The project seeks to address common criticisms associated with detached suburban villas by avoiding expansive lawns and instead cultivating a front court garden that enhances both private enjoyment and community engagement.

**Spatial Strategy**
The layout emphasizes efficient land utilization, with a configuration that eliminates side setbacks, allowing the residence to integrate seamlessly into the urban fabric. This design features multiple courtyards, including a front court-garden that provides semi-private space for residents and guests, a rear court-garden enhancing outdoor living, and a linear axial ‘oasis’ that facilitates natural light and ventilation throughout the dwelling.

**Material Selection and Climate Response**
Materials chosen for this project reflect a commitment to sustainability without sacrificing aesthetics. Recycled concrete serves as the primary structural component, while photovoltaic panels on the “Malqaf” roof capture solar energy. Natural insulating materials, such as cork, enhance thermal performance and serve to diminish the environmental impact of construction. Key climate-responsive features include geothermal systems for temperature regulation, strategically oriented openings for natural lighting, and wind towers for passive ventilation, thereby improving indoor air quality and energy efficiency. The design also accommodates future expansions, allowing for adaptability as family needs evolve.

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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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