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Green Roofs and Greywater Systems in a Biophilic Family Residence

Author:
Mohannad Khalaf
Green Roofs and Greywater Systems in a Biophilic Family Residence

Project in-detail

Sustainable green roofs and a greywater recycling system enhance the biophilic design of a modern residence, seamlessly integrating traditional Bedouin influences with contemporary living for a family-oriented environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a greywater recycling system to conserve water.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that enhances architectural aesthetics.
04
Incorporates solar panels designed to meet the entire household's energy needs.
05
Integrates courtyards strategically for optimal natural light and ventilation.

# Analytical Report: Dhabi House

## Overview

Located in Maadi City, Abu Dhabi, the Dhabi House exemplifies a blend of traditional and contemporary architectural influences, primarily inspired by the traditional Bedouin tent. The intent behind the design is to create a dwelling that prioritizes flexibility, sustainability, and a strong connection to the surrounding environment. Spanning a plot area of 450 m² with a built area of 249 m², the layout is oriented to maximize natural light and cross-ventilation, facilitating a harmonious living experience.

## Spatial Organization

The internal layout incorporates essential living spaces, including a living/dining room, kitchen, service room, and bedrooms, with an en suite master bedroom. The design follows the "Geometries of Being" concept, promoting an integrated relationship between indoor and outdoor areas. This encourages both communal interaction and private retreats, ensuring that the spatial arrangement effectively accommodates varying needs and family dynamics.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The materials used in the Dhabi House reflect an adherence to local heritage and environmental mindfulness. Key components include lime stone tiles, lime plaster, gypsum board, and recycled galvanized steel. The roofing system employs VIP insulation and vegetation layers to support green roofing, while flooring includes XPS rigid insulation and concrete made from recycled materials.

Sustainability features prominently in the design, with the incorporation of solar panels that generate 10,800 kWh annually and advanced energy management systems. Water conservation is also addressed through greywater recycling and drip irrigation systems, contributing to the home's self-sufficiency.

Overall, the Dhabi House demonstrates a commitment to sustainable living while meaningfully engaging with cultural narratives and modern architectural practices.

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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
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
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