Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Monolithic Structure Featuring Geometric Patterns and Sustainable Materials for Contemporary Living

Authors:
Eyad Farghaly, Amro Sami
Monolithic Structure Featuring Geometric Patterns and Sustainable Materials for Contemporary Living

Project in-detail

Characterized by its monolithic form and intricate geometric patterns, the residence integrates sustainable materials and extensive glazing to create a modern living environment that harmonizes with cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Monolithic structure enhances thermal efficiency through its compact design.
02
Geometric patterns on the façade optimize natural light while minimizing heat gain.
03
Extensive use of glass integrates interior spaces with the surrounding landscape.
04
Charred wooden shingles provide a sustainable exterior finish with low maintenance.
05
The bent A-frame design supports open floor plans and versatile interior use.

### Project Overview

Situated in the United Arab Emirates, the "Future Ancient" house embodies a synthesis of modern design and traditional influences. The project features a monolithic structure that utilizes contemporary architectural techniques while reflecting historical elements of the region. The design intent is to create a cohesive relationship between the past and the future, enriching the local architectural landscape.

### Spatial Strategy and Interior Design

The layout emphasizes openness and functionality, fostering a seamless flow between spaces. The living area serves as a central hub designed for family gatherings and social interaction, promoting an inviting atmosphere. Two distinct kitchens are incorporated to accommodate varying culinary activities, enhancing versatility. The arrangement of multiple bedrooms on the first floor, including a master suite with an en-suite bathroom, prioritizes privacy and comfort. The spatial organization not only meets modern living demands but also encourages a lifestyle connected to both social and personal needs.

### Material Selection and Façade Design

The material palette is characterized by a judicious selection of elements that balance aesthetics with functionality. Concrete serves as the primary structural material, delivering durability and stability. Extensive use of glass in the façade facilitates natural lighting and visual integration between interior and exterior environments. The application of metal cladding for exterior surfaces contributes to a polished, contemporary visibility while ensuring low maintenance. The façade exhibits a distinctive geometric pattern that enhances light manipulation, thus enriching the interior ambiance throughout the day. Through these design choices, the project reflects a commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy