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Radial Design Incorporating 3D Printed Concrete and XLAM Panels for Sustainable Living

Author:
Cristina Brandi
Radial Design Incorporating 3D Printed Concrete and XLAM Panels for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating radial geometry with 3D printed concrete and XLAM panels, the design fosters community interaction while providing a sustainable residential solution in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates radial geometry to enhance communal interaction and privacy.
02
Utilizes 3D printed concrete for structural efficiency and reduced waste.
03
Employs XLAM panels for improved energy performance and sustainability.
04
Features a central courtyard that maximizes natural light and ventilation.
05
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.

### Project Overview
Located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the design focuses on achieving a harmonious balance between traditional cultural references and modern residential architecture. Situated on a proposed land area of 450 square meters, the structure embodies the region's historical context while addressing contemporary living needs.

### Spatial Organization
The architectural approach employs radial geometry, drawing inspiration from local cultural motifs to create spaces that promote communal living alongside individual privacy. The configuration consists of curved forms rather than conventional linear arrangements, fostering interactions among inhabitants. Central to the design, a series of courtyard spaces echo traditional Emirati homes, facilitating social gatherings while ensuring personal areas.

### Material Selection
The choice of materials supports the project's sustainability objectives.
- **3D Printed Concrete** is utilized for walls, promoting construction efficiency and significantly reducing waste.
- **XLAM Panels**, a form of engineered wood, enhance energy efficiency and structural integrity.
- **Reinforced Concrete** serves as a robust foundation element, ensuring durability.
- **Natural Woods** are incorporated throughout the interior, providing warmth and reflecting traditional craftsmanship.

These materials collectively contribute to a comprehensive strategy that prioritizes environmental responsibility.

### Architectural Elements
The floor plan is organized into three distinct levels to optimize functionality:
- **Ground Floor**: Features communal areas including living, dining, and kitchen spaces, all organized around a central courtyard.
- **First Floor**: Comprised of private family areas designed to maximize natural light and ventilation.
- **Second Floor**: Dedicated to utility and leisure, with extensive views of the surrounding environment.

The façade integrates cultural motifs through large windows, promoting natural light and ventilation while minimizing reliance on artificial lighting. Sectional drawings illustrate varying ceiling heights and accommodate future solar panel installations, emphasizing an energy-efficient design strategy.

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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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