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Laser-Cut Façade and Natural Limestone Create Harmonious Privacy in Modern Residential Design

Author:
Nael Yahia Ibrahim Bayomi
Laser-Cut Façade and Natural Limestone Create Harmonious Privacy in Modern Residential Design

Project in-detail

Crafted with a laser-cut façade and natural limestone, this residence integrates cultural motifs with sustainable practices to create a functional living space that prioritizes privacy and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique laser-cut façade integrates traditional Arabic patterns for cultural resonance.
02
Natural limestone reduces environmental impact while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
03
Central courtyard optimizes natural ventilation and improves indoor climate.
04
Dedicated "dirty kitchen" area promotes efficient cooking and food preparation.
05
Incorporation of renewable energy systems supports sustainable living practices.

## Project Overview

This residential design is situated in a context that marries contemporary lifestyle demands with cultural traditions. Spanning three levels, the design emphasizes a balance of aesthetics and functionality, while prioritizing sustainable living principles. The intent is to create a space that fosters both privacy and communal interaction, integrating environmental considerations throughout the architectural framework.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality

The building's layout has been carefully crafted to optimize usability and comfort. The ground floor features a double-height reception area that maximizes natural light and sets an inviting tone. A central courtyard acts as a microclimate modifier, facilitating natural ventilation and incorporating greenery into the home. The open kitchen and dining spaces enhance connectivity, while the inclusion of a dirty kitchen addresses practical cooking needs. On the first floor, a master bedroom suite with a private dressing area complements three additional bedrooms, all designed for family-oriented living with shared bathroom access. A central family gathering space, enhanced by a double-height ceiling, is positioned for ease of interaction. The basement caters to leisure and functionality, housing a pool, offices, and service rooms, acknowledging the cultural context's significance for residential support spaces.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration

Material choices reflect a commitment to sustainability while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the structure. Local limestone provides an elegant exterior finish, while extensive glass elements promote natural illumination and visual continuity across spaces. Wood accents contribute warmth, harmonizing with the modern design. The use of thermal mass materials furthers energy efficiency by facilitating passive cooling, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. Notably, the design incorporates greywater and rainwater management systems, underscoring its dedication to environmental stewardship. Features such as a laser-cut façade with traditional Arabic motifs add a distinctive character that connects the building to its cultural heritage, while passive design strategies, including controlled window openings and shading techniques, enhance overall comfort levels throughout the year.

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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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