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Modular Living Spaces Built with Thermal Insulating Concrete Panels and Geometric Patterns

Authors:
Ang Li, Qianyu Liu, Yankuo Ma, Fayang Wen
Modular Living Spaces Built with Thermal Insulating Concrete Panels and Geometric Patterns

Project in-detail

Constructed with prefabricated concrete panels that incorporate a triangular pattern for enhanced light diffusion, the design seamlessly adapts to family growth while providing sustainable urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using 1m x 3m modular prefabricated concrete panels for rapid assembly.
02
Incorporates a geometric triangular pattern to optimize natural light distribution.
03
Features a customizable layout that accommodates evolving family needs.
04
Includes a dedicated majlis to promote traditional social gatherings.
05
Designed with thermal insulation properties to improve energy efficiency.

## Project Overview

Located in the United Arab Emirates, the House of the Future addresses contemporary housing needs in urban settings by emphasizing affordability, adaptability, and modularity. The design incorporates a modular approach, permitting the addition of units to cater to growing families and evolving lifestyles while respecting traditional cultural practices. This project represents a methodical response to the complexities of modern living.

## Modular Design Strategy

Central to the project is its modular design, utilizing prefabricated panels measuring 1m x 3m to create customizable cuboidal units. These modules can be arranged in three distinct layouts tailored to the residents’ needs:

1. **Two-bedroom model** with en-suite facilities.
2. **Living and service spaces** divided for distinct daily activities.
3. **Social layout** featuring a dedicated majlis for gatherings and separate entrances.

This modularity fosters flexibility, allowing residents to expand their homes incrementally as requirements change.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

The design emphasizes the use of materials that enhance structural integrity and aesthetic value. Key elements include:

- **Prefabricated Concrete Panels**, chosen for their rapid installation and durability, also providing insulation suited to the UAE’s climate.
- **Concrete Slabs**, which allow for open-plan living while supporting the overall structure.
- **Canvas Roofs** that serve functional purposes for car parking, ensuring waterproofing and thermal regulation.
- **Triangular Pattern Design**, reflecting traditional Islamic geometry, enhances interior light quality and contributes to visually engaging façades.

This material strategy not only supports efficient construction practices but also aligns with sustainable principles, creating a model for future residential developments.

## Spatial Organization and Aesthetics

The layout prioritizes a balance between private and communal living spaces, encouraging social engagement through open-plan arrangements in shared areas while maintaining privacy in designated bedrooms. Flow patterns are carefully articulated to separate guest, family, and service circulation, enhancing comfort and efficiency in shared environments.

The building façades demonstrate a dynamic interplay of solid and void, utilizing triangular patterns to increase natural light and create a cohesive relationship with the surrounding environment. This modern interpretation of traditional design elements acknowledges regional architectural heritage while addressing contemporary needs.

### Landscape Integration

In addition to its aesthetic function, landscaping serves to enhance privacy and foster community interaction. The inclusion of greenery and outdoor spaces contributes not only to the appeal of the project but also to environmental sustainability, reinforcing the overall design intent.

The project's emphasis on future expansion, cultural sensitivity, and sustainability positions it as a significant example of housing solutions tailored for urbanized contexts.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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