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Harnessing Atmospheric Moisture with Cork and Reinforced Concrete in a Desert Climate Home

Author:
Lily-love Toppar
Harnessing Atmospheric Moisture with Cork and Reinforced Concrete in a Desert Climate Home

Project in-detail

Utilizing a U-shaped layout to optimize airflow and employing cork and reinforced concrete for moisture collection, this residence addresses water scarcity while promoting comfortable living in a desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a U-shaped design to maximize airflow and enhance natural ventilation.
02
Integrates moisture collection systems that capture atmospheric humidity for sustainable water supply.
03
Incorporates locally sourced cork for insulation, promoting environmental sensitivity.
04
Features wind towers designed for passive cooling, reducing dependence on mechanical systems.
05
Employs reinforced concrete in combination with traditional materials for structural integrity and durability.

## Overview
The Rain-Towers of the Seven Emirates project is located in the arid context of the United Arab Emirates, addressing the critical issue of water scarcity through innovative architectural strategies. By integrating traditional elements, specifically the wind-tower (Barjeel), with contemporary technology, the design aims to enhance climate responsiveness and promote sustainable living. The project utilizes a U-shaped plan that fosters community interaction while allowing for potential future expansion.

## Sustainable Design and Water Collection
At the heart of the Rain-Tower initiative is a dual-purpose functionality that focuses on atmospheric water generation and improved thermal performance. Natural cooling mechanisms, such as wind towers, utilize prevailing winds to enhance ventilation throughout the interiors. Additionally, structures designed for rain harvesting capture atmospheric moisture, blending traditional practices with modern plumbing systems. This integrated approach not only meets practical needs but also aligns with the project’s sustainable ethos.

## Material Selection and Aesthetic Integration
The material palette has been carefully curated to respond to environmental conditions and aesthetic context. Lightweight, renewable cork is used for its excellent thermal insulation properties, while reinforced concrete provides structural integrity. Glass elements maximize natural light, and steel supports enhance durability. The choice of wood in flooring and beams establishes a connection with nature, promoting an indoor-outdoor relationship. Together, these materials create a cohesive aesthetic that reflects the local cultural heritage, with subtle textures and colors that offer warmth amidst the surrounding desert landscape. The design thoughtfully incorporates motifs characteristic of Islamic architecture, merging functionality with artistic expression.

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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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