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Porous Polyethylene Fabric Integrating Aeroponic Systems for Sustainable Desert Living

Author:
Amirali Merati
Porous Polyethylene Fabric Integrating Aeroponic Systems for Sustainable Desert Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating porous polyethylene fabric alongside integrated aeroponic systems, this Dubai residence emphasizes sustainability and efficiency while fostering a cohesive family environment in a desert setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes porous polyethylene fabric for enhanced thermal regulation in a desert climate Features underground aeroponic systems for year-round food production Incorporates radiant cooling panels to minimize energy consumption Integrates natural light shafts to optimize illumination throughout living spaces Designed with a focus on community living while maintaining private family areas.

## Overview

Located in Dubai, UAE, this project aims to create a harmonious connection between the rural desert environment and the urban landscape. It is designed to engage with the contrasting cultural legacies of the region, emphasizing the maritime heritage of the north and the desert tradition of the south. The intent is to facilitate an integrated lifestyle that merges modern living with the tranquility of natural surroundings, promoting ecological awareness and sustainability.

## Architectural Form and Structure

The design features an organic form that reflects the natural contours of the desert landscape. It comprises two primary components: an upper structure clad in porous polyethylene fabric, which enhances cooling through radiant heat dissipation, and an underground infrastructure that houses an aeroponic farm. This dual component not only promotes efficient food production but also reinforces the project's commitment to sustainability. The innovative use of materials such as glass and thermal ochre maximizes natural light and optimizes energy consumption throughout the day.

## Spatial Configuration and User Experience

Structured as a family home for six occupants, the layout emphasizes both communal living and individual privacy. It integrates communal spaces for gatherings with private areas for personal retreat, effectively catering to family dynamics. The arrangement encourages interaction, while also offering designated areas for agricultural practices within the home. Features such as strategically placed ventilation pipes and light shafts enhance natural ventilation and daylight penetration, contributing to a comfortable living environment. The overall design illustrates a thoughtful approach to balancing functionality with an engaging user experience.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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