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Gyroid Geometry and AirKrete Sustainability in a Contemporary Dubai Residence

Author:
Mohammad Shawkat Ibrahim
Gyroid Geometry and AirKrete Sustainability in a Contemporary Dubai Residence

Project in-detail

Characterized by its distinctive gyroid geometry and the use of AirKrete for enhanced sustainability, the residence integrates modern living with environmentally conscious design elements in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates gyroid geometry to enhance spatial interaction and natural light distribution.
02
Utilizes AirKrete for superior insulation while minimizing environmental impact.
03
Features large double-glazed windows for energy efficiency and reduced UV exposure.
04
Integrates a natural ventilation system to optimize indoor air quality.
05
Preserves cultural identity through design elements inspired by the local palm tree.

## Overview

The Minimal House, located in Dubai, exemplifies a synthesis of local cultural heritage and contemporary architectural practices. The design takes inspiration from the geometric forms of palm trees, which are integral to the historical and social fabric of the UAE. By employing minimalism as its guiding principle, the structure integrates sustainable features tailored to the environmental context of Dubai, enhancing both livability and aesthetic appeal.

## Spatial Organization

The layout of the Minimal House is delineated into clearly defined zones to accommodate various activities while promoting functionality and flow. The public zone includes a Majlis Room and Dining Area, fostering social interaction. Adjacent to this is the service zone, which comprises essential utility spaces such as storage, laundry, and pantry facilities. The family zone features communal areas like a living room and kitchen, while the private zone allocates dedicated space for bedrooms, ensuring comfort and privacy.

## Material Selections

The architectural integrity of the Minimal House is supported by a judicious selection of materials, each chosen for its functional and environmental benefits. AirKrete serves as a green concrete option, minimizing energy consumption. The use of double-glazed low-emissivity windows enhances insulation and energy efficiency. White stucco on the façade provides texture, while parquet wood flooring in the interiors creates warmth. Gypsum ceiling boards contribute to a modern aesthetic. Additionally, the incorporation of solar panels underlines the project’s commitment to renewable energy solutions.

Sustainability strategies further include a natural ventilation system that promotes airflow for improved indoor air quality, solar water heating to reduce dependency on conventional energy sources, and a condensation capture system to be utilized for landscape irrigation.

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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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