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Mud and Aerogel Integration in Community-Centric Urban Housing

Author:
Javed Alam
Mud and Aerogel Integration in Community-Centric Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Employing a unique combination of mud and aerogel, this community-focused urban housing initiative effectively balances traditional design elements with modern sustainability practices to create functional living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes aerogel for superior insulation, enhancing energy efficiency in a hot climate.
02
Integrates traditional mud construction techniques for natural cooling properties.
03
Features a communal Majlis that fosters social interaction within the community.
04
Incorporates transparent wood elements, providing natural light while maintaining thermal performance.
05
Employs 3D printing technologies to minimize waste during construction.

### Project Overview
Located in Dubai, the Arabian Nights project integrates traditional Arabian architectural elements with modern design principles, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and cultural relevance. The design draws inspiration from the historical Sikkas, or narrow alleys, which were prominent during the Islamic Golden Age, reinterpreting them within a contemporary urban framework.

### Spatial Strategy
The organization of spaces emphasizes the balance between communal interaction and individual privacy. Key features include a modern interpretation of the Majlis, designed as a gathering space that facilitates community engagement. The layout strategically segments formal and informal areas, catering to various activities while promoting social connectivity. Innovative climate adaptation strategies, such as low-height AC vents and passive cooling systems, further enhance the functionality and comfort of the environment.

### Materiality
The selection of materials reflects both cultural heritage and modern technological advancements. Traditional materials like mud and adobe provide natural insulation, while contemporary materials such as aerogel and transparent wood improve energy efficiency and sustainability. Concrete is used strategically to support innovative structural forms, while matte mud tiles create a visually appealing façade that honors traditional aesthetics. Additionally, the incorporation of heat-resistant ceilings and double-glazed windows contributes to the building's overall thermal performance, ensuring durability in Dubai's climate.

### Innovative Features
Prominent among the project's features is a dedicated communal Majlis area, embedded within the alley to strengthen cultural ties. Smart ventilation systems equipped with occupancy sensors optimize air flow, while water management initiatives, including rainwater harvesting and waste recycling, demonstrate a commitment to sustainable living practices. The use of modern 3D printing technologies allows for intricate architectural forms with minimal waste, signifying a progressive approach to construction within the region.

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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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