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Rammed Earth and Adobe Brick Residence Set Against Sustainable Landscape in Dubai

Authors:
Kaoutar Chouikhi, Basma El Hassani, Ranya Douk
Rammed Earth and Adobe Brick Residence Set Against Sustainable Landscape in Dubai

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth and adobe brick, the residence seamlessly integrates traditional materials with modern sustainability practices, creating a functional living environment in Dubai's urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced rammed earth for thermal efficiency and durability.
02
Incorporates traditional adobe brick to connect with cultural heritage.
03
Features strategically placed wind towers for natural ventilation.
04
Integrates solar photovoltaic panels for renewable energy use.
05
Landscape design utilizes native plants to promote water conservation.

**Overview**
Located in Al Furjan, Dubai, the residential development reflects a synthesis of traditional Emirati architecture and contemporary design principles. The intent is to create a living environment that honors local cultural heritage while prioritizing sustainability and energy efficiency. Through its architectural features, the project offers a modern interpretation of traditional motifs, facilitating a dialogue between the past and the present.

**Spatial Strategy and User Interaction**
The two-floor layout is designed for efficient circulation and adaptability, enhancing functionality for various living arrangements. Key spaces include a grand entrance reminiscent of traditional arcades, a majlis that serves as a cultural gathering point, and open-plan dining and living areas that support social engagement. Additionally, outdoor spaces, such as an outdoor kitchen and leisure areas, extend the living experience into nature, encouraging a harmonious relationship with the environment.

**Materiality and Sustainability**
A carefully selected palette of materials supports both aesthetic appeal and environmental responsibility. Rammed earth provides natural temperature regulation, while adobe bricks enhance thermal efficiency. Fired clay bricks maintain structural integrity and visual consistency with traditional elements. Wood introduces warmth to interiors, and palm fibers improve insulation without reliance on synthetic alternatives. In terms of sustainable systems, the integration of solar photovoltaic panels, a rainwater harvesting system, and passive cooling techniques work together to minimize the project's environmental impact and enhance energy efficiency.

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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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