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Modular Living Spaces in Steel and Rockwool for Flexible Urban Families

Author:
Fadi maarouf El ayache
Modular Living Spaces in Steel and Rockwool for Flexible Urban Families

Project in-detail

Utilizing a modular framework of cold-formed steel and Rockwool insulation, this design offers adaptable living spaces tailored for urban families seeking flexibility and cost-efficiency in their homes.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular design that allows for easy expansion without significant construction disruption.
02
Incorporates cold-formed steel as the primary structural material for enhanced durability.
03
Employs Rockwool insulation, promoting energy efficiency and sound attenuation.
04
Features a strategically oriented layout to maximize natural light while maintaining privacy.
05
Designed with pre-fabricated components, reducing onsite construction time and labor costs.

## Analytical Report on the B2A “Build to Add On” Architectural Design Project

### Overview
Located in Dubai, the B2A "Build to Add On" project is a contemporary residential design focused on flexibility and adaptability to meet evolving family needs while being mindful of budget constraints. The intent of this project is to facilitate long-term affordability through a modular construction approach that allows for incremental growth without significant upfront investment.

### Spatial Configuration and Modularity
The architectural design incorporates six hexagonal modules, providing a foundational layout composed of essential communal and private spaces. This modular framework is engineered to support future expansions, enabling families to adapt their living space as their requirements change. The orientation of the structure maximizes natural light and strategically addresses privacy concerns, optimizing both functionality and comfort.

The implementation of Volumetric Modular construction allows for approximately 95% of the building components to be prefabricated, thereby enhancing construction efficiency and performance. This approach enables families to expand both horizontally and vertically, with provisions for built-in versatility in foundational systems and vertical circulation.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
A diverse palette of materials has been chosen to ensure structural resilience and aesthetic coherence. Key materials include:

- **Structural elements:** Cold-formed steel
- **Floor slab:** Lightweight screed
- **Tiling:** Thin ceramic and porcelain (3-6 mm)
- **External walls:** EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) with Rockwool insulation
- **Internal walls:** GWB (Gypsum Wall Board) with plaster and silk paint finish
- **Floor finishes:** 1200 x 600 mm porcelain tiles
- **Ceiling:** GWB with a 3000 mm clear height
- **Window systems:** Ultra-slim aluminum profiles with energy-efficient glazing (u-value 1.4 W/m²K)

These material choices not only enhance the project's modern aesthetic but also contribute to its sustainability by ensuring high performance while minimizing environmental impact.

### Contextual Integration and Future-Readiness
The site measures 15 meters in width and 30 meters in length, with road access that facilitates convenient vehicular movement. The longitudinal orientation of the residence enhances connectivity with the outdoor environment while adhering to local zoning regulations regarding setbacks and open spaces.

Designed for future growth, the structure incorporates flexible architectural features, such as easily removable modules. The design considers future expansions while maintaining the integrity of the existing layout, exemplified by the strategic planning for areas like the carport canopy, which can be modified to accommodate additional living spaces without compromising the overall performance of the building.

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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

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