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Rammed Earth Construction with Integrated Courtyard Spaces Supporting Multi-Generational Living

Authors:
Ruben Valentino S Giannini, Stanislas Marc Eddie Remi Turcon
Rammed Earth Construction with Integrated Courtyard Spaces Supporting Multi-Generational Living

Project in-detail

Rammed earth walls envelop interconnected courtyards, creating a sustainable living environment that enhances multi-generational interaction while respecting traditional architectural forms.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide excellent thermal performance and reduce energy consumption.
02
Integrated courtyards enhance natural ventilation and light across living spaces.
03
Traditional majlis serves as a communal gathering area, promoting social interaction.
04
Local materials minimize the environmental footprint and support regional craftsmanship.
05
Design allows for future adaptability, accommodating changing family needs over time.

### Overview

Bayt Al Mustaqbal is situated in Dubai and reflects the city’s cultural heritage while integrating modern design and sustainable building practices. The architectural concept evolves from the traditional typology of residential structures in the region, aiming to harmonize historical context with contemporary living. The project aligns with Dubai's smart city vision for 2050, showcasing a narrative that spans from traditional architecture to modern residential solutions.

### Spatial Organization

The spatial arrangement is designed with a clear hierarchy that balances public and private areas. Public spaces, including a front yard and a majlis, are intended to foster community interaction and embody the cultural customs of hospitality. Semi-public areas such as the dining and living spaces are designed with integrated courtyards to promote natural light and airflow, enhancing the indoor-outdoor experience. Private areas, including bedrooms, are thoughtfully separated to provide tranquility, while additional semi-private spaces ensure a balance between communal and personal privacy.

### Material Considerations

The materiality of Bayt Al Mustaqbal emphasizes sustainability through the use of locally sourced materials that reflect the environment. A primary element is **rammed earth**, utilized for its thermal mass properties and visual appeal. Load-bearing **tongue and groove panels** contribute to the structural integrity while enhancing energy efficiency. Natural color pigments provide a cohesive aesthetic in line with the local landscape, while **ISO panels** are strategically used for insulation, improving the overall energy performance of the building. Each material has been selected to minimize environmental impact, underscoring a commitment to sustainable construction methods.

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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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