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Kinetic Facade and Self-Healing Concrete in Sustainable Residential Design

Author:
Varun Vijay Sinha
Kinetic Facade and Self-Healing Concrete in Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

A kinetic facade constructed from self-healing concrete enhances energy efficiency and ventilation in a sustainable residence designed to foster family interaction around a central courtyard.
5 key facts about this project
01
A kinetic facade adapts to environmental conditions for improved ventilation and energy efficiency.
02
Self-healing concrete is used to enhance durability and reduce maintenance over time.
03
The design incorporates lime and cement stabilized earth blocks for thermal comfort.
04
A central courtyard with water features promotes cooling and social interaction.
05
Integrated solar panels contribute to the building's renewable energy strategy.

## Architectural Design Project Overview

Located within the United Arab Emirates, the project occupies a rectangular site measuring 15m x 30m, emphasizing modern residential living in alignment with sustainable practices. The design seeks to achieve a harmonious balance between functionality and aesthetic value while prioritizing environmental considerations.

### Zoning and Spatial Arrangement

The organization of spaces reflects a strategic zoning approach across three levels: ground floor, first floor, and roof. The ground floor comprises essential functional zones including a parking area, a servant's room, an outdoor kitchen, and a Majlis, which collectively facilitate family interactions while maintaining privacy. These spaces are directly accessible from a central courtyard, which serves as a private outdoor area. On the first floor, bedrooms are thoughtfully arranged alongside shared balconies that overlook the garden, promoting a connection to nature. The roof plan integrates a kinetic facade that adapts to varying environmental conditions, enhancing natural ventilation in response to the UAE's climate.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Innovative material choices underscore the commitment to durability and sustainability. Basalt rebars are utilized for their corrosion resistance and lower carbon footprint compared to conventional steel. Lime and Cement Stabilized Earth Blocks (CEBs) enhance thermal comfort and humidity control, contributing to a healthier indoor environment. Self-healing concrete is incorporated to ensure structural longevity and minimize maintenance, while Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) allows for intricate design details without increasing the building's mass. Additionally, lime plaster and wash are employed for their breathability and adaptability, promoting a sustainable living space.

These design elements highlight the careful consideration given to both functionality and ecological impact, positioning the project as a relevant example of sustainable residential architecture in arid regions.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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