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Rammed Earth Facade With Geometric Patterns Enhancing Multi-Generational Living

Authors:
Gregor Issaian, Gayane Movsesyan, Erik Harutyunyan
Rammed Earth Facade With Geometric Patterns Enhancing Multi-Generational Living

Project in-detail

The integration of a rammed earth facade and geometric patterns creates a visually distinct environment that supports multi-generational living while reflecting cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth facade enhances thermal mass and energy efficiency.
02
Geometric patterns reflect traditional Emirati design elements.
03
Natural ventilation is achieved through innovative windcatcher features.
04
Dedicated Majlis space fosters cultural gatherings and family interaction.
05
Local materials are sustainably sourced to minimize ecological impact.

**Overview**

Located in Dubai, the House of the Future embodies a synthesis of traditional Islamic architectural elements and contemporary sustainable technologies. This residential design is informed by the rich cultural heritage of the United Arab Emirates, aiming to foster a sense of place while addressing the needs of modern living. Its conceptual framework emphasizes multi-generational living and encourages social interaction through its communal spaces, reflecting key aspects of Emirati culture.

**Architectural Identity and Materiality**

The architectural design features fluid forms interspersed with domes, arches, and intricate geometric patterns, drawing inspiration from traditional motifs while introducing modern aesthetics. The facade employs soft, warm desert tones, promoting an integration with the surrounding environment. Sustainable materials are prioritized to uphold both ecological and aesthetic standards. Natural light is harnessed through the strategic placement of skylights and clerestories, significantly reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Passive solar techniques contribute to an inviting interior atmosphere, ensuring comfort throughout the year.

**Sustainable Engineering Practices**

Innovative air-flow systems, including windcatchers and cross-ventilation strategies, enhance indoor climate control while minimizing mechanical dependency. In addition, the design incorporates advanced resource management systems focused on waste reduction and water recycling, aligning with eco-friendly practices. Solar panels and energy-efficient technologies further illustrate the commitment to sustainability, establishing the project as a forward-thinking residential model in a rapidly urbanizing context. The integration of communal spaces, particularly the Majlis, reflects the values of family and hospitality central to Emirati culture, enhancing both social cohesion and the user experience.

**Materials Specification**

The construction utilizes sustainable local stone, rammed earth, and adobe for the exterior, coupled with lightweight reflective roofing systems to improve energy efficiency. High-efficiency, double-glazed glass is employed for windows, while interior finishes consist of natural woods, sustainable composites for flooring, and organic textiles, reinforcing the project's ecological and cultural considerations.

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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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