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Natural Light-Infused Residence Featuring Composite Materials and Modular Design in a Desert Landscape

Natural Light-Infused Residence Featuring Composite Materials and Modular Design in a Desert Landscape
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Utilizing composite materials and an organic form inspired by sand dunes, the residence maximizes natural light and energy efficiency while providing a harmonious living environment in a desert setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Biomimetic design inspired by local sand dune formations.
02
Composite materials utilized for lightweight and quick assembly.
03
Large glass panels maximize passive solar gain and natural ventilation.
04
Drought-tolerant landscaping complements sustainable living.
05
Modular construction method reduces onsite waste and time.

### Overview

Located in a desert environment, this architectural project draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape, particularly the undulating forms of sand dunes. The design integrates sustainability with modern technology to facilitate energy-efficient living, addressing the challenges presented by the arid climate.

### Conceptual Framework

The design emphasizes organic forms through the principles of biomimicry, resulting in a structure that is both functional and visually coherent with its natural context. The form of the building, influenced by the Fibonacci sequence, reflects patterns found in nature, promoting a philosophy of sustainability and coexistence with the landscape. Beyond serving as a residence, the project embodies a commitment to harmonizing architectural presence with the ecological and social fabric of its environment.

### Materiality

The selection of materials prioritizes lightweight, sustainable options, contributing to both energy efficiency and ease of construction. Composite materials facilitate effective assembly methods, while innovative freeform 3D printing technology enables the creation of complex structural shapes. Large glass panels enhance the interior with natural light and provide expansive views, while effective insulation materials minimize heat transfer, promoting energy conservation throughout the year. Additionally, native landscaping complements these choices, fostering a biological environment that requires minimal water consumption and sustains local biodiversity.

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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

Open architecture competitions

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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity

Recurring architecture competitions

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Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025
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