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Modular Living Utilizing Bamboo and Recycled Materials in Climate-Responsive Design

Authors:
Ji Yun Cho, Somi Park
Modular Living Utilizing Bamboo and Recycled Materials in Climate-Responsive Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing bamboo and recycled materials, this climate-responsive housing solution employs modular design to facilitate adaptable living arrangements within a community-oriented framework.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes bamboo as a primary structural element for enhanced sustainability.
02
Incorporates recycled aluminum and glass for improved resource efficiency.
03
Features modular units that allow for flexible living configurations.
04
Employs passive cooling techniques tailored for Dubai’s climate.
05
Integrates communal spaces with landscaped areas for social interaction.
The architectural design project titled "Bridging Epochs: The Dubai Odyssey of Timeless Habitats" represents an innovative approach to residential living in Dubai. This project emphasizes modularity and sustainability, presenting a solution for contemporary housing needs while addressing climatic challenges. The design explores how residential units can function independently or as part of a larger community, promoting both privacy and social interaction among residents.

Modular Configuration and Community Interaction

The architectural layout consists of hexagonal and triangular forms arranged in a circular manner, promoting spatial efficiency and creating opportunities for social engagement. Each modular unit is designed to adapt to the changing needs of inhabitants, allowing for expansions or reductions in size. This flexibility caters to different living arrangements, from single occupants to larger families. The project’s circular layout fosters community interaction, essential in urban living.

Importantly, the layout also incorporates landscaped areas, communal spaces, and water features, enhancing the living environment. These outdoor areas serve dual purposes: they facilitate social activities among residents and contribute to climate-responsive cooling, critical in Dubai’s hot climate.

Sustainable Materiality and Energy Efficiency

A key aspect of the project is its commitment to sustainability through careful selection of materials. The design employs bamboo-based materials, recycled aluminum, and nano-wood to minimize environmental impact while ensuring structural integrity. Solar panels are incorporated into the design to harness renewable energy, further reducing reliance on traditional power sources. Additionally, the use of recycled glass for windows contributes to thermal insulation, optimizing energy consumption.

The architectural planning integrates passive cooling strategies, such as strategically placed openings and shaded areas, capitalizing on natural breezes. Rainwater harvesting systems are also designed into the infrastructure to promote resource conservation.

Innovative Design Solutions

What distinguishes this project from conventional housing developments is its emphasis on adaptability and user-centric solutions. Each unit is engineered to support a range of lifestyle preferences, allowing for personalization and variation based on individual or communal requirements. The architecture encourages sustainability not only through material choices but also through lifestyle integration, where community engagement and ecological awareness are prioritized.

The unique approach to space is evident in the interconnectedness of modules, which can be reconfigured as needed. This adaptability is essential for responding to the dynamic nature of urban living, where residents may experience changes in family size, work circumstances, or social needs over time.

As you explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs of this project, consider how the innovative approaches to modularity, sustainability, and community engagement could influence future residential architecture in rapidly urbanizing regions. Delve into the architectural ideas presented to gain a deeper understanding of this forward-thinking initiative.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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