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Palm-Inspired Design Utilizing Prefabricated Construction for Sustainable Living Solutions

Author:
Maryam Walid Hussein Nahawi
Palm-Inspired Design Utilizing Prefabricated Construction for Sustainable Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing palm materials and prefabricated construction methods, this residence integrates sustainable living solutions with cultural heritage to create a versatile family home in a desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced palm materials to enhance thermal performance.
02
Incorporates an atmospheric water generation system for sustainable hydration.
03
Features prefabricated components for efficient assembly on-site.
04
Integrates passive cooling strategies through architectural shading elements.
05
Includes adaptable spaces that cater to evolving family needs.

### Overview

The Arish House is situated in a desert environment, drawing on traditional architectural forms from the region, particularly the Arish, a palm-based structure historically found in old Dubai houses. The design aims to create a sustainable and contextually relevant living space that merges contemporary architectural practices with local cultural heritage. It emphasizes a responsive approach to living in an extreme climate, showcasing adaptability to different family structures and emphasizing community integration.

### Spatial Strategy and Adaptability

The project employs a prefabricated modular design that facilitates efficient construction and customization. A key aspect of the design is the incorporation of transitional spaces, which smoothly connect the public and private spheres of the home. This flexibility allows the housing unit to adapt to varying family configurations, from single occupancy to multi-generational living arrangements. Shared garden spaces are also integrated into the design to promote community interaction while supporting private outdoor experiences.

### Sustainable Materiality and Technologies

The material selection for the Arish House prioritizes both sustainability and aesthetics. Key features include:

- **Local Palm Materials**: Used in the Arish screen, these materials reflect traditional building practices while enhancing shading and ventilation.
- **Prefabrication**: Utilizing off-site construction methods minimizes waste and streamlines the building process.
- **Renewable Energy Systems**: A solar panel canopy generates energy for the home, reinforcing the commitment to renewable technologies.
- **Atmospheric Water Generation**: This system captures moisture from the environment, addressing water scarcity in the region.
- **Effective Insulation**: High-quality insulation materials improve thermal performance, reducing energy consumption.

These elements not only honor regional architectural heritage but also respond to contemporary sustainability imperatives, providing a thoughtful framework for modern living in arid climates.

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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

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