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Integration of Recycled Materials with Thermal Blocks in a Desert-Adapted Family Home

Author:
Marcos Juarez Nicolau
Integration of Recycled Materials with Thermal Blocks in a Desert-Adapted Family Home

Project in-detail

Utilizing thermal blocks and recycled materials, this family home seamlessly integrates with the desert landscape while promoting energy efficiency and community-oriented living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes thermal blocks made from recycled materials for enhanced insulation.
02
Incorporates a rooftop garden for urban agriculture and sustainability.
03
Features expansive glass façades for maximum natural light and connection to the outdoors.
04
Integrates solar power systems designed to support energy independence.
05
Design emphasizes communal living spaces to foster community interaction.

## Overview

Located in Dubai, the Dune Project represents an architectural response to the region's desert landscape and urban dynamics. The design is oriented towards ecological sustainability, integrating elements from the natural environment to create a residence that harmonizes with its surroundings. By focusing on a contemporary aesthetic that is functional and energy-efficient, the project aims to provide a model for future residential developments in rapidly urbanizing areas.

## Spatial Organization

The layout of the Dune Project is strategically divided across two primary levels. The ground floor is dedicated to communal and functional spaces, featuring a spacious living and dining area complemented by large glass windows to enhance the connection with the exterior. A well-equipped kitchen integrates smoothly with the dining space, while an adjacent garage provides convenient access. Recreational amenities, such as a swimming pool and relaxation area, are positioned to overlook landscaped gardens, fostering a sense of tranquility.

The first floor prioritizes privacy and wellness, encompassing three bedrooms and a versatile office space that accommodates modern working needs. Wellness features, including a sauna and outdoor terraces, promote health-oriented lifestyles. These design elements are further interconnected through expansive terraces that extend the living space, encouraging family interactions and community engagement.

## Material Selection

The Dune Project makes use of innovative and sustainable materials to support its architectural vision. Recycled wood and plastics form the core insulation framework, enhancing energy efficiency while minimizing construction waste. A solar power system with a capacity of 32 kW enables energy independence, supporting electric vehicle charging and regulating indoor temperatures. Extensive glazing is employed to maximize natural light, creating airy interiors that connect residents with the outdoor environment. Thermal blocks, made from recycled materials, provide essential insulation and expedite construction. These material choices reflect a commitment to modern architectural practices while promoting environmental stewardship and resource conservation.

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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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