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Perforated Mashrabiya and 3D-Printed Walls Foster Sustainable Living in Courtyard Homes

Perforated Mashrabiya and 3D-Printed Walls Foster Sustainable Living in Courtyard Homes

Project in-detail

Incorporating 3D-printed walls and intricate perforated mashrabiya, the design creates a series of energy-efficient residences centered around vibrant courtyards, promoting community interaction and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates locally sourced materials to enhance sustainability and reduce environmental impact.
02
Features intricate perforated mashrabiya for light control and privacy while promoting airflow.
03
Utilizes 3D-printed wall technology for efficient construction and thermal performance.
04
Designed around open courtyards to foster community interaction among residents.
05
Integrates renewable energy solutions, including solar panels for sustainable living.

### Overview

Luminara Heights, located in Dubai, presents a modern residential development that integrates contemporary architectural design with sustainable practices. The project aims to enhance urban living quality while respecting local cultural traditions and environmental considerations. It balances aesthetic appeal with a commitment to social responsibility, reflecting both modern architectural innovation and traditional Middle Eastern design principles.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The design incorporates an open courtyard that serves as a central gathering point, fostering interaction among residents and creating a natural flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. A strategic 2.5-meter setback enhances ventilation and shading, contributing to an improved spatial experience. Floor plans feature a two-story layout, with public areas on the first floor—including a living room, kitchen, and dining area—while private spaces, such as bedrooms with en-suites and balconies, are located on the second floor. This arrangement allows for varying family dynamics and promotes well-being through ample light and air circulation.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The selection of materials prioritizes environmental sustainability without compromising aesthetics. Innovative features such as 3D-printed walls and perforated mashrabiya enhance both privacy and light play. Locally sourced organic materials are employed to reduce the carbon footprint and promote thermal comfort. The design also integrates renewable energy solutions, including the installations for solar panels, and incorporates water conservation measures such as greywater recycling systems. The warm color palette, inspired by the surrounding desert landscape, further reinforces the connection between the architecture and its environment.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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