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Modular Living Structures Crafted from 3D Printed Clay and Incorporating Green Roofs

Author:
Alessandro Di Lorenzo
Modular Living Structures Crafted from 3D Printed Clay and Incorporating Green Roofs

Project in-detail

Crafted with 3D printed clay and designed with integrated green roofs, this residential community emphasizes sustainability and modular living to create a harmonious environment along the shores of the Persian Gulf.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printed clay for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Incorporates extensive green roofs to promote biodiversity.
03
Features communal outdoor kitchens to foster community interaction.
04
Design mimics organic shapes found in the local desert landscape.
05
Modular housing units adaptable for varying family sizes and needs.
The StoneOasis project represents a significant advancement in sustainable residential design, integrating inherent cultural values with modern architectural principles. Situated along the shores of the Persian Gulf, the project emphasizes community living through a modular housing approach that prioritizes both social interaction and individual privacy. The overall design encapsulates the essence of the local environment while incorporating innovative materials and techniques.

The project comprises a masterplan featuring a grid layout that allocates 25% of the area to green spaces, fostering ecological balance. Approximately 75% of the space consists of modular housing units designed to accommodate various family configurations. The unique radial distribution of spaces allows for a central communal area, enhancing connectivity among residents while offering private areas for rest and reflection.

Innovative Material Use and Sustainability

A defining characteristic of StoneOasis is its approach to materiality and sustainability. The primary construction material is 3D printed clay, which not only provides a natural aesthetic but also excellent thermal insulation properties suitable for the region’s climate. Treated concrete serves as the structural backbone, ensuring stability and longevity while being designed to withstand local environmental conditions.

The design incorporates expansive glass windows to enhance natural lighting in living spaces, creating a seamless interplay between indoor and outdoor environments. Natural textiles add warmth and comfort to interior finishes, promoting a sense of home. The architectural design utilizes passive cooling systems and strategic positioning of roof terraces, which decreases energy consumption and enriches the inhabitants' outdoor experience.

Community-Centric Design and Cultural Integration

The layout of StoneOasis promotes community engagement through thoughtfully placed communal spaces, such as gardens and outdoor kitchens, that encourage interaction among residents. This layout is crucial in creating a vibrant neighborhood that supports social ties, reflecting traditional values in a modern context. The architectural form mimics the organic shapes of the surrounding desert landscape, offering visual continuity with nature.

Inclusive of local cultural practices, the design considers family dynamics and cultural norms, ensuring that each housing module serves the needs of diverse user groups. Rooftop gardens serve as communal spaces, fostering biodiversity while enhancing the aesthetic appeal. The project stands out in its ability to balance ecological principles with user-centered design, making it a relevant model for housing developments in similar climatic regions.

For an in-depth exploration of the StoneOasis project, including architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas, readers are encouraged to review the detailed project presentation. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the unique design approaches and the architectural elements that define this exemplary residential community.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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