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Modular Living Enhanced by Natural Light and Sustainable Materials

Author:
Alia Mousa Ibrahim Jasim Jadda
Modular Living Enhanced by Natural Light and Sustainable Materials

Project in-detail

Characterized by its modular adaptability and extensive use of natural light, this residence seamlessly integrates sustainable materials to accommodate the evolving needs of a modern Emirati family.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for dynamic reconfiguration of living spaces to adapt to family needs.
02
Extensive use of natural light enhances interior ambiance and reduces reliance on artificial lighting.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic warmth and improved durability against the elements.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural integrity while maintaining eco-friendly principles.
05
The bent A-frame design offers unique spatial qualities and facilitates effective natural ventilation.

## Overview
The Minimalist Adjustable House (MA House), located in the United Arab Emirates, was designed by Architectural Engineer Alia Mousa to meet the residential needs of an Emirati family. This project emphasizes functionality, simplicity, and adaptability through a modular layout that accommodates the evolving requirements of its inhabitants. The design integrates modern aesthetics with practical living considerations, encapsulating a response to contemporary family dynamics.

## Spatial Organization and Flexibility
The spatial configuration of the MA House promotes a well-defined flow while ensuring privacy throughout the living areas. The ground floor encompasses 152 m², featuring a 40 m² living/dining area that serves as the central gathering space, a 14.5 m² kitchen strategically linked to the dining area, and additional utility spaces including a maid’s room and laundry. The 106 m² first floor is designed for private living, incorporating a master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and additional bedrooms tailored for guests or family members. The modular nature of the layout allows for dynamic reconfiguration, facilitating both current lifestyles and future adaptations.

## Materiality and Environmental Considerations
The choice of materials reinforces the minimalist approach while enhancing durability and sustainability. Key materials include concrete for structural integrity, large glass windows for natural light and visual connectivity with the outdoors, steel for railings and structural supports, and wood for shading and decorative elements. This selection reflects a commitment to environmentally friendly practices, incorporating locally sourced and renewable materials. Such emphasis on materiality not only supports the overall architectural philosophy but also strengthens the connection between the dwelling and its environmental context.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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

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