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Movable Prefabricated Units with Sustainable Solar Integration and Natural Ventilation Features

Authors:
Mehrnoosh Forghaniozroudi, Seyedreza Osseini, Seyedsoheil Hosseini, Amirhossein Hajizadehalamdari
Movable Prefabricated Units with Sustainable Solar Integration and Natural Ventilation Features

Project in-detail

Movable prefabricated units equipped with solar panels and optimized for natural ventilation create adaptable living spaces that enhance communal interaction while addressing climatic challenges in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Movable living units can be repositioned along a track system to adapt to seasonal changes.
02
Multiple non-central courtyards promote private outdoor spaces while enhancing community interaction.
03
Solar panels integrated into the roof design provide energy self-sufficiency for the units.
04
Natural ventilation is optimized through elevated positioning and open layout to reduce reliance on mechanical cooling.
05
The use of local materials, including wicker and gypsum board, supports environmental sustainability and cultural relevance.

### Overview

Located in Dubai, the Non_Central Courtyards project presents a flexible and sustainable approach to housing that aligns with the cultural, social, and climatic considerations of the region. Departing from the conventional central courtyard design found in traditional Middle Eastern architecture, the project features multiple non-central courtyards to enhance adaptability. This arrangement fosters a network of public, private, and service spaces that encourage diverse social interactions.

### Spatial Configuration

The architectural design consists of a series of prefabricated boxes, each designated for specific functions—public, private, and service—allowing for a variety of spatial configurations. The layout emphasizes accessibility, with a central corridor acting as the main circulation route connecting the distinct areas. This corridor not only facilitates movement but also plays a critical role in climate management by optimizing airflow throughout the structure.

### Material Selection

A careful choice of materials enhances both sustainability and functionality. The project incorporates EPDM rubber for insulation, steel plates for structural integrity, gypsum board for internal finishes, and wicker panels that provide aesthetic appeal and promote ventilation. Additionally, solar panels are integrated for renewable energy generation, while rainwater tanks support efficient water management. Transparent glazing maximizes natural light, further contributing to the building's energy efficiency and overall durability.

### Climate Adaptability

Notable features include movable living cubes, equipped with electric motors allowing residents to adjust their living spaces according to climatic conditions and personal preferences. This dynamic aspect showcases adaptability in domestic arrangements. Furthermore, the elevated positioning of the cubes facilitates natural airflow for temperature regulation, complemented by dual-layer roofs that reduce heat transfer. The design encourages green integration through multiple courtyards, enhancing biodiversity and providing residents with private outdoor areas.

### Sustainability Initiatives

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the design. The physical configuration promotes natural air circulation to cool interior spaces without reliance on mechanical systems. Water management is optimized through a rainwater collection system, while solar panels enable on-site energy generation, reflecting a commitment to minimizing dependence on nonrenewable resources. The project illustrates a progressive architectural framework that balances contemporary living with environmental stewardship and community connectivity.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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