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Gypsum Exoskeleton and Vertical Turbine in an Energy-Efficient Residential Structure

Author:
Anup Menon Krishnan
Gypsum Exoskeleton and Vertical Turbine in an Energy-Efficient Residential Structure

Project in-detail

The integration of a gypsum exoskeleton and vertical axis wind turbine enables a sustainable energy-efficient residential structure designed for adaptability and cultural relevance in the United Arab Emirates.
5 key facts about this project
01
A vertical axis wind turbine is integrated into the design to optimize energy generation without casting shadows on solar panels.
02
The use of a gypsum exoskeleton allows for aesthetic updates and efficient insulation while maintaining structural integrity.
03
Rainwater harvesting and desalination systems are incorporated for sustainable water management in an arid climate.
04
Modular construction techniques facilitate easy modifications and expansions to the residential layout.
05
Natural materials such as sandstone and recycled denim insulation contribute to the building's environmental performance.

**Project Overview**
Located in the United Arab Emirates, the design prioritizes climate adaptability, energy efficiency, and versatile functionality. Its conceptual framework emphasizes sustainability and cultural relevance, facilitating modifications for various occupancy types, including residential and commercial uses. The cubic structure minimizes surface area, reducing material consumption and energy expenditure, while incorporating advanced energy solutions such as a vertical axis wind turbine and a solar panel array.

**Spatial Distribution and User Experience**
The design strategically allocates functional spaces across three levels: the ground floor features a guest lobby, kitchen, and utilities; the first floor accommodates bedrooms along with areas designated for prayer and relaxation; the second floor hosts a terrace garden intended for leisure and social events. This organization supports cultural practices, particularly allowing for communal gatherings during significant periods. The layout ensures that private spaces also provide functional work areas, enhancing the overall user experience.

**Materiality and Environmental Responsibility**
A thoughtful selection of materials underscores the project's commitment to sustainability, utilizing structural steel, stainless steel, sandstone, gypsum, denim, cotton insulation, and glass. These materials are chosen for their recyclability, durability, and local sourcing. Notable features include a gypsum panel exoskeleton, which permits future aesthetic updates, and a rainwater harvesting system tailored to the region's climate. This careful material approach alongside efficient desalination techniques contributes to achieving net zero energy and fresh water goals for the building.

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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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