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Modular Design with Recycled Bricks and Natural Lighting in Climate-Responsive Housing

Authors:
Abanob Shreif, Heba Mousa, Abdelrahman Medhat Moharm Sadek Hegazy, Hussien Zidan, Shaimaa Ahmed
Modular Design with Recycled Bricks and Natural Lighting in Climate-Responsive Housing

Project in-detail

With a modular design utilizing recycled bricks and abundant natural lighting, the development offers a sustainable living solution that effectively responds to the climate of Dubai while fostering family connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled bricks derived from local construction waste for durability and sustainability.
02
Incorporates a green roof to enhance insulation and support local biodiversity.
03
Features extensive glass surfaces designed to optimize natural light while minimizing heat gain.
04
Designed with modular elements that allow for easy reconfiguration to adapt to changing family needs.
05
Employs high-efficiency solar panels integrated into the building's structure for energy generation.

# Architectural Analysis Report: House of the Future

## Overview

Located in Al Barsha, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the House of the Future is a residential design that reflects the region's dual identity of modern innovation and cultural heritage. This project leverages its strategic urban setting, providing access to essential amenities such as healthcare, markets, and educational institutions, while ensuring the design respects and incorporates elements of traditional Emirati architecture.

## Architectural Form and Materiality

The architectural form features contemporary lines and design elements that resonate with local traditions through an intricate façade of exposed walls and alternating voids. This approach incorporates domed ceiling structures to enhance natural light distribution within the interior spaces. Material choices emphasize sustainability and aesthetic appeal; recycled bricks, sourced from drilling by-products, provide durability with reduced environmental impact, while expansive glass openings facilitate natural light and connect occupants with the landscape. The use of natural stone and wood harmonizes the interiors with the desert environment, complemented by LED lighting for energy efficiency.

## Sustainability and User Experience

Sustainability is a core aspect of the design, evidenced by the strategic installation of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems. Drip irrigation systems optimize water use, while a green roof aids in natural cooling and mitigates urban heat. The layout supports flexibility for future expansions, aligning with the values of family progression in Emirati culture. Interior spaces prioritize well-being through a minimalist approach enriched with natural textures and colors, creating a balanced relationship between indoor and outdoor areas for enhanced user experience. Additionally, the landscape integrates native flora, such as the Tamarl palm, and establishes outdoor seating spaces from natural stone, fostering social interaction while complementing the local environment.

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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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