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Rammed Earth Structure Featuring Geothermal Systems for Sustainable Living

Authors:
Sara Maleki, Mandana Tanbakooei Esfahani
Rammed Earth Structure Featuring Geothermal Systems for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Rammed earth construction combined with geothermal systems creates a resource-efficient residence designed for sustainable living in an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth wall construction enhances thermal mass and energy efficiency.
02
Integrated geothermal systems reduce reliance on external energy sources.
03
Flexible interior layouts accommodate various family dynamics and activities.
04
Windcatchers provide passive cooling in line with traditional architectural methods.
05
Harvested rainwater ensures sustainable water management for household use.

## Overview

Located in Dubai, the Shield House is a forward-thinking architectural concept designed to address sustainability challenges within urban environments. This residence combines advanced technologies with a commitment to resource conservation, creating a self-sufficient living space that prioritizes ecological impact reduction alongside occupant comfort. The design aims to integrate modern living with natural ecosystems, functioning as a protective structure that meets essential utility needs while responding to climate change and resource scarcity.

## Spatial Configuration

The architectural form features flowing organic shapes that evoke natural landscapes, mirroring the contours of sand dunes and ocean currents. A distinct shell structure with dynamic rooflines enhances water drainage and aids in the natural cooling of interior spaces. The design facilitates flexible interior arrangements through the use of sliding walls, allowing for rapid reconfiguration to suit diverse activities and family needs. Open living areas promote social interaction and maintain visual connections to the surrounding environment, enhancing the overall user experience.

## Sustainable Systems

The Shield House incorporates an array of advanced systems aimed at optimizing energy efficiency and resource management. Renewable energy systems include photovoltaic panels that harness solar power and heat recovery mechanisms that recycle waste energy within the home. Water management strategies involve geothermal heating and cooling, as well as rainwater harvesting systems designed for both irrigation and household use. Additionally, smart technology integrated throughout the residence allows for real-time monitoring and control of energy consumption, adapting to the occupants' behaviors and ensuring maximum 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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