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High-Density Polycarbonate Panels Define Adaptable Living in Arid Environments

Author:
Claudio Zayas Jackson
High-Density Polycarbonate Panels Define Adaptable Living in Arid Environments

Project in-detail

Utilizing high-density polycarbonate panels and prefabricated sustainable materials, the design balances adaptability and energy efficiency in response to the demands of desert living while creating a contemporary residential space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes high-density polycarbonate panels for superior insulation and natural light.
02
Incorporates prefabricated sustainable materials to reduce on-site construction time and waste.
03
Design allows for future adaptability, accommodating changing residential needs.
04
Features extensive glass surfaces for improved airflow and visual connectivity with nature.
05
Specific water management strategies are integrated to optimize usage in a desert environment.

## Project Overview

Conceptualized in the United Arab Emirates, the House of the Future is a progressive residential design that addresses the specific housing needs arising from the region’s extreme desert climate, characterized by average temperatures of 33°C. The design aims to harmonize futuristic architectural aesthetics with environmental sustainability, serving as a response to the evolving demands of urban living in the UAE.

## Spatial Organization and Functional Zoning

The architectural layout employs a clear zoning strategy across three distinct volumes, allowing for efficient circulation and accessibility. The basement (46.56 m²) is dedicated to utilities and storage, housing essential mechanical systems. The first level (110.58 m²) encompasses communal areas such as living and dining spaces, designed for fluid interaction. The second level (169.28 m²) is dedicated to private suites, promoting privacy while ensuring connectivity through well-designed circulation elements. The inclusion of separate service and main entries further optimizes functionality within the home.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

The choice of materials underscores a commitment to sustainability, enhancing both performance and aesthetic value. High-density polycarbonate panels serve to insulate against extreme temperatures, ensuring comfort in interior spaces. A robust metal structural framework adds durability, while prefabricated sustainable panels, made from recycled materials, facilitate efficient on-site assembly. Extensive use of glass elements maximizes daylight penetration, forging visual connections with the external environment. Additional integral elements include marble flooring for durability and insulation panels designed to improve thermal efficiency.

By adapting to environmental challenges and emphasizing modular construction methods, the design represents a forward-thinking approach to residential architecture that aligns with contemporary sustainability goals.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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