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Plant-Based Materials and Flexible Layouts Foster Community in Sustainable Living Spaces

Author:
José Fiori
Plant-Based Materials and Flexible Layouts Foster Community in Sustainable Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing plant-based materials and modular construction techniques, the design creates adaptable living spaces that foster community engagement and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sustainable materials include recycled plastics and dry plant residues for insulation.
02
Modular design allows reconfiguration of living spaces to suit changing needs.
03
Outdoor garden terraces promote food cultivation and community interaction.
04
Large windows utilize natural light while integrating indoor and outdoor environments.
05
Universal design features enhance accessibility for all ages and abilities.

**Overview**

The House of the Future is situated in Dubai, developed in response to an architectural competition sponsored by the United Arab Emirates government, aimed at exploring innovative housing solutions. The design integrates traditional Emirati cultural elements with contemporary lifestyle needs, featuring a modular and flexible layout intended for occupancy by four to six residents. Key considerations include sustainability, efficient use of space, and modern aesthetics that resonate with local heritage.

**Spatial Arrangement and Functionality**

The layout is organized into modular and sub-modular components designed to optimize living conditions. Essential spaces include communal areas such as living rooms, dining areas, and kitchens that promote social interaction, alongside private spaces like bedrooms and bathrooms that prioritize personal privacy. Flexible configurations allow for adaptability to varying user requirements, accommodating guests or work-from-home arrangements. The circulation strategy employs a linear flow through spacious corridors, ensuring accessibility with ramps and elevators to enhance movement throughout the residence.

**Materiality and Environmental Integration**

Material choices reflect a commitment to sustainability, employing local resources such as dry plant residues for insulation and aesthetic finishes, and repurposed plastics for structural elements. The design incorporates glass and lightweight composites to maximize natural light and create a sense of openness. The house is equipped with eco-friendly systems for water management, including rainwater harvesting and filtration processes, alongside gardens for food production and renewable energy solutions like solar and wind power. This commitment to resource efficiency underscores the project's aim for self-sufficiency while addressing broader environmental concerns.

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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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