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Perforated Panels and Sky Well Create an Oasis in a Sustainable Desert Residence

Perforated Panels and Sky Well Create an Oasis in a Sustainable Desert Residence
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Utilizing perforated panels and a central sky well, this residence incorporates sustainable cooling strategies while providing a harmonious living space amidst the harsh desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes perforated panels for enhanced ventilation and light control.
02
Features a central sky well for effective rainwater harvesting and cooling.
03
Integrates local materials to reflect cultural heritage and environmental context.
04
Employs cross-ventilation strategies throughout the living spaces for energy efficiency.
05
Incorporates traditional courtyard design to foster social interaction and community.

## Overview

Located in Dubai, Villa LUSH is an architectural endeavor that seeks to respond to the challenging desert environment through a blend of sustainable design and cultural appreciation. The project draws inspiration from traditional Arabic architectural motifs while incorporating modern techniques, resulting in a space that promotes a serene living experience. The design thoughtfully integrates natural elements, materiality, and local context, serving as both a reflection of historical influences and a modern residential solution.

### Spatial Organization

The spatial arrangement of Villa LUSH facilitates both social interaction and private retreat. Central to this organization is a courtyard, which functions as a ventilation and cooling space adorned with indigenous plants, echoing the traditional majlis theme of hospitality and community. The open-plan layout of the living, dining, and kitchen areas fosters connectivity, while guest suites and bedrooms are designed to provide opulent privacy. Multi-level living spaces and carefully considered sightlines enhance a sense of spaciousness and promote natural airflow throughout the villa.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Villa LUSH employs a selective palette of materials that emphasizes durability and thermal efficiency. Concrete is used for its robustness and thermal mass, essential for maintaining comfort in a hot climate. Perforated panels serve a dual purpose of aesthetic appeal and thermal barrier, improving air circulation while reducing heat gain. Extensive use of glass enhances natural lighting and creates clear connections to the outdoor environment, while traditional brick walls anchor the design in local heritage. Sustainable features such as solar panels, advanced water management systems for rainwater harvesting, and effective thermal insulation further underscore the project's commitment to ecological responsibility and energy efficiency.

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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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Eligibility Open to all
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