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Meshrabiya Facades and Elliptical Cores Define a Sustainable Family Home

Meshrabiya Facades and Elliptical Cores Define a Sustainable Family Home
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Incorporating custom Meshrabiya facades and an innovative elliptical core, this sustainable residence optimizes natural ventilation while fostering communal interaction within its family-oriented spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Custom Meshrabiya facades enhance privacy while facilitating airflow.
02
The elliptical core design maximizes natural ventilation within the residence.
03
Sustainable materials include locally sourced concrete and composite finishes.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems support landscape irrigation and reduce water waste.
05
Flexible interior spaces adapt to various family activities and gatherings.

## House of the Future, United Arab Emirates

### Overview
Situated in the United Arab Emirates, the House of the Future merges traditional and contemporary architectural principles, reflecting the region's cultural heritage while addressing modern sustainability challenges. The design philosophy is grounded in the words of Sheikh Zayed, emphasizing the interconnectedness of past, present, and future, which is expressed through the architectural form and materials used. The project embodies a narrative that honors historical roots while anticipating future living standards aligned with environmental sustainability.

### Spatial Strategy
The architectural layout features a series of elliptical cores and interconnected spaces, fostering dynamic interactions between indoor and outdoor areas. A prominent central staircase not only serves as a functional element but also enhances connectivity throughout the residence. The incorporation of traditional Meshrabiya screens serves both aesthetic and environmental functions, optimizing shading and ventilation, critical for comfort in the UAE's climate. The arrangement creates a harmonious flow and facilitates social interaction, reflecting the communal values inherent in UAE culture.

### Materiality and Sustainability
A diverse palette of materials has been selected to reinforce both sensory experience and ecological responsibility. Durable concrete forms the structural basis, while extensive glass integration facilitates natural lighting and visual continuity with the surrounding landscape. Customized wooden lattices draw on cultural motifs and enhance interior aesthetics, contributing to the home's character. The project's sustainable focus includes features such as solar panels for energy efficiency, advanced cooling strategies leveraging the elliptical core for natural ventilation, and systems for rainwater harvesting, underpinning its commitment to environmental stewardship. Overall, these design choices exemplify a forward-thinking approach in harmonizing heritage with contemporary ecological practices.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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