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Hydroponics-Integrated Residence With Aerated Concrete and Smart Glass Elements

Authors:
Roaa Naser Ahmed Aljaghbeir, Mira Jaafar, Maha Lutfi Ali Malkawi, Noura Ibrahim Naser Saeed Al Ameri, Ahmed Abd Elaziz Elsayed Elshakhs
Hydroponics-Integrated Residence With Aerated Concrete and Smart Glass Elements

Project in-detail

Incorporating hydroponics and smart glass, this residence utilizes aerated concrete to create a sustainable living space that promotes environmental efficiency and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes hydroponic systems for in-home food production.
02
Incorporates smart glass technology for adjustable privacy and light control.
03
Features large courtyards to enhance natural ventilation and outdoor interaction.
04
Employs aerated concrete for improved insulation and lightweight structure.
05
Includes a dedicated Majlis for traditional social gatherings within a modern context.

### Overview

Located in a contemporary Emirati context, the "House of the Future" is designed to reflect the evolving needs of society while embedding cultural values. Prioritizing flexibility and privacy, the residence serves modern lifestyles with a focus on efficiency, sustainability, and aesthetics. The architectural approach integrates smart technology with traditional design elements, addressing contemporary environmental demands and social preferences.

### Cultural Integration

The layout emphasizes communal living, which is central to Emirati culture. Key features include expansive communal areas such as a Majlis, facilitating gatherings while maintaining personal privacy. The design incorporates spatial strategies that promote social interaction and individual retreat, ensuring both community engagement and comfortable living.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project employs a carefully curated selection of materials that promote sustainability and durability, including autoclaved aerated concrete blocks and hybrid concrete, which serve both structural and aesthetic purposes. Synthetic options like waterproof paint protect against harsh climatic conditions. Notably, hydroponic systems support soil-less agriculture within the residence, optimizing spatial efficiency and minimizing water usage, while atmospheric water generators ensure the availability of clean drinking water, further reducing the environmental footprint of the home.

### Spatial Organization

The residence is organized into distinct functional areas. The ground floor comprises guest accommodations and service areas intertwined with courtyards, while the first floor is dedicated to private living spaces, including bedrooms and leisure areas. An accessible roof plan integrates recreational spaces with solar panels, maximizing energy efficiency. The design ensures connectivity between indoor and outdoor areas, fostering an environment that emphasizes openness.

### Interior and Aesthetic Design

Interiors are characterized by abundant natural light facilitated by large glass walls, complemented by organic shapes and natural materials that create a serene atmosphere. The main living area is designed for flexibility, accommodating both large gatherings and intimate settings. Transitioning between indoor and outdoor spaces is enhanced through circular pathways, reinforcing a strong connection with nature, which is a fundamental aspect of the architectural philosophy.

Overall, the "House of the Future" epitomizes a comprehensive approach that integrates advanced technology, cultural traditions, and sustainable practices to meet the needs of contemporary Emirati society.

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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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