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Himalayan Pink Salt and Reclaimed Wood in Sustainable Airport Facilities

Author:
Ibrahim Desooky
Himalayan Pink Salt and Reclaimed Wood in Sustainable Airport Facilities

Project in-detail

Utilizing a unique aluminum wing assembly and Himalayan pink salt, the design enhances functionality and sustainability within a multi-purpose facility at Al Dhafra Airport.
5 key facts about this project
01
Aluminum wing assembly repurposed from aircraft materials Himalayan pink salt flooring sourced from Khewra, Pakistan Biophilic design elements with indoor bamboo and pampas grass Wind rose analysis directly influencing building orientation Low emissivity glazing used for energy efficiency in public areas.

The design at Al Dhafra Airport combines functionality and environmental awareness. Set in a unique context, it caters to various needs, featuring spaces such as a training meeting room, a gift shop with offices, and a café. The overall concept emphasizes user interaction and connects well with the natural surroundings.

Design Orientation

A detailed wind rose analysis influences the orientation and layout of the building. Understanding the direction and speed of winds throughout the year helps optimize natural ventilation and thermal comfort. This design decision supports sustainability and creates a comfortable environment for users.

Material Innovation

An aluminum wing assembly, sourced from repurposed aircraft materials, forms a key element of the design. This choice not only highlights sustainability but also adds distinct shapes to the structure. Inside, a canvas screen filters daylight, enhancing energy efficiency and improving comfort for those inside the building.

Interior and Exterior Integration

Biophilic design is evident in the use of bamboo for ramps and railings, bringing natural elements into the space. Plantings of bamboo and pampas grass offer a peaceful atmosphere and enhance air quality. The flooring blends whitewashed reclaimed wood with Himalayan pink salt, creating a connection to local materials and enhancing the visual experience.

Structural Elements

The design prioritizes open spaces, supported by vertical steel columns that provide stability without limiting function. Spandrel glazing panels serve as railings while allowing light to enter, maintaining a connection to the outside. This careful design approach promotes ease of movement and enriches the experience within the building.

The project concludes with a façade that reflects a balance between sustainability and innovation, offering clear connections between the building and its environment.

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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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