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Perforated Concrete Facade and Native Landscaping Enhance a Sustainable Urban Oasis

Author:
Siarhei Karoza
Perforated Concrete Facade and Native Landscaping Enhance a Sustainable Urban Oasis

Project in-detail

The integration of a perforated concrete facade and xeriscaped native landscaping creates a sustainable oasis that facilitates communal living in an arid environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of perforated concrete panels allows for controlled natural light and ventilation throughout the interior spaces.
02
A central courtyard design fosters communal interaction while providing a private outdoor area.
03
Sustainable landscaping incorporates native plant species to reduce water usage in an arid climate.
04
Cross-laminated timber is utilized in structural elements, enhancing both stability and aesthetic quality.
05
The project's orientation optimizes solar gain and passive cooling, minimizing energy consumption.

**Overview**

Located in a hypothetical context in Dubai, the design of this residential concept addresses the environmental challenges and cultural nuances inherent to the region. Aimed at creating a balanced living environment, the project incorporates modern architectural principles while emphasizing sustainability and user comfort. The project framework promotes individual expression alongside communal interaction to meet the varying needs of future residents.

**Spatial Organization and User Experience**

The ground floor is structured around a central courtyard that functions as a communal oasis, encouraging socialization and relaxation. Key features include a garden pond that enhances tranquility and open-plan dining and living areas that facilitate a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. The upper levels offer balconies and terraces aimed at fostering intimate connections with nature, while a spiral staircase not only serves as a visual focal point but also maintains an open flow throughout the home's levels.

**Material Consideration and Environmental Approach**

The building employs a robust structural framework of concrete and steel, tailored to withstand the desert climate. The facade combines architectural concrete and perforated panels that provide both aesthetic appeal and functionality, filtering natural light while ensuring privacy. Interior spaces utilize a smooth plaster finish and large glass windows to enhance the flow of natural light and maintain views of landscaped areas.

Sustainability is a core focus, evident through features such as solar water heating systems and greywater recycling, which are pivotal in reducing the environmental footprint. The thoughtful integration of local flora through xeriscaping reinforces water conservation efforts while creating a lush oasis ambiance amidst the arid surroundings. Additionally, the adaptable design allows for future modifications to accommodate family growth, aligning with the dynamic nature of urban development in Dubai.

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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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