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Natural Sand Masonry and Mangrove Wood Integrate Seamlessly in Sustainable Desert Residence

Authors:
Ivona DlÁbikovÁ, Lenka DlÁbikovÁ
Natural Sand Masonry and Mangrove Wood Integrate Seamlessly in Sustainable Desert Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing local sand masonry and pressed mangrove wood, the residence harmoniously combines sustainable materials with passive cooling techniques to create a comfortable family home in a desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates local sand masonry for thermal efficiency.
02
Utilizes pressed mangrove wood for structural and aesthetic elements.
03
Features a passive cooling system through a central glass chimney.
04
Incorporates a waste water reservoir for garden irrigation.
05
Designed with modularity in mind for future expansion.

### Overview
The OASIS House, situated within a desert landscape, embodies a design approach that prioritizes contemporary living while respecting the local environment and cultural context. The intent is to create a habitat that emphasizes sustainability and functionality, allowing residents to engage with nature through well-considered outdoor spaces and natural ventilation systems.

### Spatial Configuration and Organization
The residence is organized into two primary blocks connected by a glass corridor that optimizes airflow and natural light. The ground floor features main living areas, including the living room, kitchen, and direct access to a private garden, ensuring a continuous visual connection with nature. The first floor comprises private quarters, designed for privacy while remaining close to communal spaces. This arrangement fosters both personal and communal living, accommodating the varying dynamics of family life.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The construction employs locally sourced materials, including masonry blocks made from desert sand, which contribute to the structure’s thermal mass. Final plaster, also from desert sand, complements this approach. Decorative elements include pressed boards of mangrove wood, featuring laser-cut patterns that provide shading while enhancing interior aesthetics. Solar panels are integrated to support energy needs, while extensive glass facades maximize natural light, enhancing the sense of openness. Additionally, water management systems allow for the recycling of wastewater for garden irrigation, further supporting the sustainable landscape design.

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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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