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Polyblock Construction Meets Coral-Inspired Design in A Sustainable Residential Setting

Author:
Rajat Dhawan
Polyblock Construction Meets Coral-Inspired Design in A Sustainable Residential Setting

Project in-detail

Crafted with Polyblock materials and inspired by coral formations, the design facilitates flexible living spaces that enhance both community engagement and environmental sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using Polyblock units composed of 90% natural filler, optimizing insulation and reducing environmental impact.
02
Features a coral-inspired design that adapts fluidly to the landscape, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.
03
Incorporates traditional Mashrabiyah screens to enhance privacy while allowing natural light and airflow.
04
Utilizes a Nine Square Grid layout, promoting flexible spatial configurations for various living needs.
05
Includes a landscaped roof terrace designed for leisure and community interaction, maximizing outdoor engagement.

### Project Overview

Located in Jumeirah Park, Dubai, the design integrates traditional Emirati architectural elements with contemporary aesthetics to create a living environment that reflects the region's cultural heritage. Inspired by Dubai's rapid transformation from a desert village to a modern urban landscape, the project emphasizes local materials and architectural vernacular, aiming to foster connections between residents and their environment.

### Conceptual Framework

#### Inspiration from Coral Reefs

The structural concept derives from the organic forms of coral reefs, symbolizing adaptability and growth. This is exemplified through the use of a 'poly-blocks' modular system, which allows for flexible spatial arrangements that echo the natural patterns of coral formations. The design promotes an evolving residential experience, aligning with the dynamic nature of urban life in Dubai.

### Spatial Integration and Community Focus

#### Open and Connective Design

This design prioritizes community interaction through a carefully arranged layout that encourages engagement with both private and public spaces. The façade features wavy patterns that enhance aesthetic appeal while providing practical benefits such as improved ventilation and shade. Central to the design are traditional elements like the Majlis, serving as a modern interpretation of communal gathering spaces, and Mashrabiyah, which offers privacy while facilitating airflow.

#### Organized Spatial Layout

Utilizing a 'Nine Square Grid' configuration, the spatial organization promotes both balance and versatility. Key programmatic elements include:

- **Basement**: Designated for utilities and storage.
- **Ground Floor**: Social spaces seamlessly connect with outdoor areas.
- **First Floor**: Private domains, including bedrooms, provide personal retreats.
- **Roof**: Designed for leisure and panoramic views, enhancing the living experience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability Initiatives

The construction employs innovative, sustainable materials that minimize environmental impact. Key materials include:

- **Polyblock Units**: Made from 90% natural filler and 10% binder, these units offer fire resistance and superior insulation. Their lightweight, recyclable nature contributes to sustainable construction practices.

- **Fibre Reinforced Concrete with Macrofibre**: This material enhances structural integrity while improving energy efficiency, reducing heating and cooling demands.

### Technical Specifications

1. **Polyblocks**:
- 100mm thick play-block units with various biolime coatings.
- Integrated with 200mm oak wooden battens and dense concrete blocks to enhance durability.

2. **Fibre Reinforced Concrete**:
- Utilized for both load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls, optimizing structural performance and reducing overall weight.

3. **Wooden Finishes**:
- 300mm oak battens are featured in flooring and detailing, contributing to the aesthetic and functional design elements.

The project addresses Dubai's evolving architectural identity by fusing modern design with culturally significant motifs. It emphasizes sustainability through local materials while fostering a strong sense of community amongst residents. The innovative façade design not only enhances visual appeal but also responds effectively to climatic challenges, promoting energy efficiency in everyday living.

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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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