Get inspired!

17,495 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Rammed Earth and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Community-Centric Spaces in Desert Living

Author:
Arnau Guinart Rull
Rammed Earth and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Community-Centric Spaces in Desert Living

Project in-detail

Employing rammed earth and cross-laminated timber, the design seamlessly integrates community-focused living spaces within the challenging desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide natural thermal mass, reducing energy consumption.
02
Cross-laminated timber enhances structural integrity while allowing flexible space configurations.
03
Community gardens integrate greenery into the living environment, promoting biodiversity.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes shading and natural light throughout the year.
05
Local coral stone is used to tie the building to its geographical context and heritage.
The architectural design project is situated in the vicinity of Dubai, characterized by a blend of modernity and regional cultural considerations. This project emphasizes sustainability, adaptability, and community-centric design, aiming to harmonize with the surrounding environment. The overall structure showcases a thoughtful integration of materials and spatial configurations that serve both functional and aesthetic purposes.

The project's primary function is to provide a residence that accommodates both communal and private spaces, reflecting the needs and values of its inhabitants. The architectural design focuses on creating a balance between social interaction and personal privacy. Spaces are designed to foster community while ensuring that individuals have areas for solitude and retreat.

Unique attributes of this project include the use of rammed earth walls, cross-laminated timber (CLT), local coral stone, and extensive glass elements that create architectural continuity with the landscape. The lower level is designed as an open, communal gathering area, promoting interaction among residents and guests. In contrast, the upper level is strategically configured to offer privacy and adaptable spaces that can transform according to the family's evolving requirements.

Sustainable design practices are central to the project. The rammed earth construction not only provides thermal mass but also minimizes ecological impact. The use of CLT offers flexibility and structural integrity, while the incorporation of glass ensures optimal light penetration and ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems. The project also features integrated planting systems that enhance ergonomic and aesthetic elements, improving the overall living environment.

The architectural design carefully considers the climatic challenges of the region. Elements such as shading devices and carefully oriented windows optimize comfort for residents, while also emphasizing a connection to the outdoors.

Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs will provide a deeper understanding of the innovative concepts and practical applications that define this project. This analysis invites you to review the project further, focusing on the architectural ideas and unique design methodologies presented throughout the design.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,495 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy