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Louvered Blinds and Solar Panels in a Flexible Desert Habitat

Author:
Rita Balogh
Louvered Blinds and Solar Panels in a Flexible Desert Habitat

Project in-detail

With a design centered around passive cooling through louvered blinds and solar panel integration, this flexible desert habitat exemplifies sustainable living while providing essential comfort and functionality for its inhabitants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a roof integrated with solar panels to maximize energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates louvered blinds designed for natural ventilation and heat control.
03
Constructed with AAC blocks, enhancing thermal insulation and lightweight design.
04
Includes dedicated garden spaces for vegetable cultivation adjacent to living areas.
05
Features an expandable layout to accommodate future needs of residents.
The House of the Future is an architectural project conceptualized to address the challenges of living in a desert environment. This design emphasizes sustainability, functionality, and cultural relevance while integrating modern construction techniques and materials to create a cohesive living space. The primary aim of the project is to provide a comfortable and energy-efficient home that respects its geographical context and promotes self-sufficiency.

Sustainable Design Approach

This project employs a “Desert Tent” concept, drawing inspiration from traditional desert dwellings while incorporating contemporary architectural practices. Important elements include a reinforced concrete pillar frame that supports flexibility in the layout, allowing for possible future expansions. The use of insulating materials is pivotal in maintaining indoor comfort under high-temperature conditions, showcasing a commitment to energy efficiency. The design features an extensive roof area fitted with solar panels, emphasizing the use of renewable energy sources.

Key architectural components include innovative louvered blinds that facilitate passive cooling through morning mist collection, contributing to sustainable irrigation for surrounding gardens. The configuration of windows and shading implemented through vertical ribs effectively minimizes solar heat gain, optimizing indoor climate control.

Material Selection and Functionality

The project utilizes a strategic selection of materials, such as reinforced concrete blocks, insulated standing seam sandwich panels, and double-glazed units, which collectively enhance thermal performance. Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) blocks are incorporated in the facade and partition walls, providing both structural stability and insulation. Mineral wool and extruded polystyrene foam are used within walls and roofs, contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the structure.

The internal spatial arrangement is characterized by a clear distinction between public and private areas, enhancing functionality. The ground floor accommodates living spaces, bedrooms, and multifunctional areas, while the first floor provides additional bedrooms and communal spaces. This layout fosters a balance between family interaction and personal privacy.

Innovative Architectural Features

Unique to this project is its expandable nature, allowing the structure to adapt over time to meet the changing needs of its residents. The design integrates natural landscape elements, with garden spaces dedicated to vegetable cultivation, enriching the biodiversity of the site and promoting self-sufficiency. The thoughtful interplay of indoors and outdoors enhances the quality of life for occupants.

Additionally, the attic space is designed to function as a passive cooling system, promoting improved air circulation and maintaining indoor comfort without reliance on extensive mechanical heating or cooling systems. This holistic approach to environmental control demonstrates a commitment to sustainable architectural practices while ensuring the inhabitants experience a high level of living comfort.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of this project, review the architectural plans, sections, and designs showcased in the project presentation to explore the detailed design ideas implemented throughout the House of the Future.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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