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Photovoltaic-Enhanced Hexagonal Modules With Climate-Responsive Glass Panels For Community Living

Authors:
Ildar Ildarkhanov, Daria Paramonova, Arkadii Molodtsov
Photovoltaic-Enhanced Hexagonal Modules With Climate-Responsive Glass Panels For Community Living

Project in-detail

Integrating photovoltaic technologies and intelligent climate-responsive design, the hexagonal modular units promote communal living while addressing the environmental challenges of the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hexagonal modular design allows for customizable spatial configurations.
02
Incorporates fog harvesting techniques for efficient water utilization.
03
Utilizes smart shading systems to optimize thermal comfort.
04
Features communal outdoor areas to enhance family interaction.
05
Constructed with sustainable materials for minimal environmental impact.

## Overview

The New Emirati House project is located in the United Arab Emirates, a region characterized by its diverse cultural heritage and challenging climatic conditions. This design serves as an entry for an architectural ideas competition that aims to redefine residential living. By integrating modern technological innovations with traditional Emirati architectural practices, the project emphasizes the creation of a sustainable and adaptable living environment.

## Spatial Configuration and Community Engagement

The design features a modular layout that fosters family-oriented living and enhances community interaction. Shaped by hexagonal modules, the arrangement allows for flexible configurations that can adapt to the evolving needs of its occupants. Enclosed communal areas connect individual units, promoting social interactions reminiscent of traditional living spaces while providing a contemporary twist. This 'family village' concept not only encourages communal engagement but also integrates indoor and outdoor spaces, maximizing natural light and ventilation in accordance with climate-responsive design principles.

## Materials and Sustainable Initiatives

The construction employs a range of materials that prioritize sustainability and energy efficiency. Structural integrity is provided by a metal framework, complemented by photovoltaic materials integrated into smart shading systems to enhance energy generation. Additional features include a drip irrigation system for efficient water management and fog harvesting mesh to capture moisture from the atmosphere, addressing water scarcity in arid environments. The thoughtful selection of materials supports ecological balance, reflecting a comprehensive approach to sustainability throughout the 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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