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Hydroponic Gardens and Piterak Cladding in Desert Residential Design

Author:
Tamara Mandic
Hydroponic Gardens and Piterak Cladding in Desert Residential Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing Piterak cladding and an integrated hydroponic garden, this residential design in the Al Qudra Desert emphasizes sustainable living while providing essential modern amenities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Piterak cladding for thermal efficiency and aesthetic integration with the desert landscape.
02
Incorporates an indoor hydroponic garden to support year-round food production with minimal water use.
03
Features solar panels that generate renewable energy for the home's daily needs.
04
Designed with a circular footprint to enhance airflow and reduce energy consumption.
05
Includes a vertical car parking lift to optimize land use in a compact urban environment.
The project is an innovative architectural design located in the Al Qudra Desert of Dubai. This dwelling exemplifies a modern approach to sustainable living, integrating advanced architectural concepts to create a self-sufficient environment. The design emphasizes energy efficiency, optimal space utilization, and eco-friendly technology, presenting a viable solution to contemporary living in a harsh climate.

The structure features a circular design that enhances airflow and provides natural insulation, addressing the challenges posed by the desert's extreme temperatures. The exterior is clad in Piterak® XS, a lightweight and thermally efficient terracotta material that blends with the natural landscape while providing durability. The roof system incorporates solar panels to promote renewable energy usage, considerably lowering the building's carbon footprint.

The main living areas include an open floor plan that fosters community interaction, supplemented by private spaces such as bedrooms that ensure residents' comfort and privacy. Notably, the presence of hydroponic indoor gardens allows for year-round food production, addressing water scarcity and contributing to food security.

Unique Design Approaches to Sustainability

What sets this project apart is its comprehensive approach to sustainability. The incorporation of hydroponic systems within the indoor garden represents a significant advancement in personal food production, allowing residents to grow crops with minimal water. This is particularly relevant in arid environments where water conservation is crucial.

The architectural design emphasizes materials that are recyclable and low in environmental impact, including the use of recycled steel for the structural framework and low-E coated glass for fenestration. This combination not only enhances energy efficiency but also supports overall sustainability goals. Furthermore, the vertical car parking lift system optimizes land use and minimizes the impact of vehicle storage on the landscape.

Architectural Features and Spatial Organization

The spatial organization of the project is strategically planned to maximize functionality and comfort. The ground floor includes essential living areas, service spaces, and bedrooms designed for accessibility. Each bedroom features integrated dressing and bathroom areas, catering to modern residential needs.

On the first floor, the design includes a pantry, an indoor garden area, and a communal dining space that fosters social interaction among residents. The layout facilitates easy movement between spaces, promoting a sense of openness and accessibility throughout the home.

The attention to detail in material selection and spatial configuration demonstrates a thoughtful integration of modern architectural ideas with sustainability principles. This project serves as an exemplary model for contemporary architecture in desert environments, emphasizing functionality, ecological responsibility, and community-centric living.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural design, spatial organization, and innovative features employed in this project, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, which includes detailed architectural plans, sections, and illustrative designs. This exploration provides valuable insights into how modern architecture can address environmental challenges while enhancing quality of life.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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