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Piston Mechanisms and HDPE Cladding Define a Flexible Community Residence in Arid Landscapes

Authors:
Tuan Nguyen, Nhut Nguyen Le Minh, Nguyen Phuong, Minh TuẤn HÀ
Piston Mechanisms and HDPE Cladding Define a Flexible Community Residence in Arid Landscapes

Project in-detail

Incorporating piston mechanisms and high-density polyethylene cladding, the residence adapts fluidly to environmental conditions, fostering communal living in a sustainable framework within the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
Piston mechanisms allow dynamic reconfiguration of living spaces.
02
High-density polyethylene cladding provides UV protection and enhances airflow.
03
Corrugated Zincalume roofing offers durability while reflecting traditional aesthetics.
04
A Qanat irrigation system efficiently manages water resources for the residence.
05
The design promotes communal gatherings through flexible outdoor environments.

### Project Overview
The Ghaf Tree House is situated in the United Arab Emirates, designed to address the distinct climatic and cultural requirements of the region. This architectural design concept merges traditional elements with contemporary family dynamics, focusing on sustainability, adaptability, and a strong relationship with the natural environment. The intention is to create a multifunctional residential space that interacts effectively with its surroundings.

### Spatial Configuration and Flexibility
The spatial organization of the Ghaf Tree House features adaptive elements that allow for the configuration of living spaces to meet varying user needs. Piston columns, which act as hydraulic lifters, enable vertical movement to reposition rooms based on functions, whether for social gatherings or privacy. Additionally, rotating floor slabs allow for dynamic spatial arrangements, fostering versatility in response to family dynamics or environmental conditions.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration
The material palette for the Ghaf Tree House is carefully chosen to balance functionality with aesthetic considerations. The exterior cladding employs high-density polyethylene (HDPE) fabric for its lightweight properties and UV protection, while a bolted galvanized steel framework provides structural integrity and facilitates engagement with the environment. Concrete floors and foundations ensure a solid yet flexible base, addressing local environmental challenges. Furthermore, the corrugated Zincalume roof resonates with traditional Arab architectural forms while providing necessary shelter. The design incorporates innovative environmental strategies such as locally sourced materials and a water collection system based on the "Qanat" irrigation method, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and cultural relevance.

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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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