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Micro-Perforated Metal Facade Combined With Vertical Gardens in Sustainable Desert Residence

Author:
Jose Flavio Correa
Micro-Perforated Metal Facade Combined With Vertical Gardens in Sustainable Desert Residence

Project in-detail

With a facade of micro-perforated metal and integrated vertical gardens, the residence employs geothermal cooling and sustainable materials to create an energy-efficient living space suited for arid climates.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with adaptive geometry to optimize natural ventilation.
02
Incorporates vertical gardens for improved insulation and biodiversity.
03
Features micro-perforated metal for sun shading and aesthetic appeal.
04
Utilizes geothermal cooling techniques for energy-efficient climate control.
05
Employs locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact.

### Project Overview

Situated within a desert context, the House of the Future represents a synthesis of contemporary architectural design and sustainable living practices. The intent of this project is to create a residential environment that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while addressing the unique climatic challenges of the region. The design incorporates modern materials and innovative aesthetics to promote energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.

### Zoning and Functional Layout

The spatial organization of the residence utilizes a clear zoning strategy that divides the interior into distinct private and social areas. Private spaces, located on the upper floors, consist of bedrooms and personal areas that offer tranquility and seclusion. Conversely, ground-level social areas are designed for communal gatherings and interactions, fostering family connections. Additionally, the incorporation of multiple gardens not only enhances the living experience through natural landscapes but also contributes to the overall well-being of the occupants.

### Materiality and Sustainability Features

The selection of materials for the House of the Future underscores its commitment to sustainability and environmental integration. Oxidized micro-perforated sheet metal serves as an innovative exterior, providing solar protection and facilitating natural ventilation. Photovoltaic panels on the double roof contribute to energy efficiency, while locally sourced stone minimizes the ecological footprint of the construction. Advanced thermal barriers, comprising materials such as aluminum and polystyrene, effectively regulate indoor temperatures. The design also emphasizes sustainability through geothermal construction techniques, graywater recycling, and natural ventilation systems, reducing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling.

This architectural project stands out for its cultural resonance, marrying traditional motifs with modern design to create a sensitive and contextually aware living space. By embracing nature through the integration of gardens and vertical climbing plants, the structure blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments, promoting biodiversity and enhancing the overall quality of life for its occupants.

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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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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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