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Rammed Earth Structure With Solar Panels and Flexible Living Spaces Emphasizing Cultural Heritage

Author:
Rami Harkous
Rammed Earth Structure With Solar Panels and Flexible Living Spaces Emphasizing Cultural Heritage

Project in-detail

Inspired by traditional Emirati architecture, the residence utilizes rammed earth construction and solar panels, creating flexible living spaces that adapt to evolving family needs while emphasizing sustainability and cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth panels for thermal efficiency and low environmental impact.
02
Incorporates solar panels seamlessly into the roof design for energy self-sufficiency.
03
Features flexible interior layouts to accommodate changing family dynamics.
04
Integrates traditional Emirati architectural elements into a modern framework.
05
Utilizes locally sourced materials to strengthen regional ties and reduce carbon footprint.

# Analytical Report on the Nostalgia Nexus Residence

## Overview

Located in Dubai, UAE, the Nostalgia Nexus Residence exemplifies an integration of contemporary architectural practices and traditional Emirati influences. The design addresses the contemporary demands of residential living while respecting and celebrating the region's cultural heritage. Through a comprehensive examination of the residence's design principles, materials, and sustainability strategies, the project serves as a case study in balancing modernity with history.

## Spatial Organization

The residence's layout employs a strategic zoning approach that organizes spaces into distinct public, mid, and private areas. This configuration promotes a balance between communal interaction and individual privacy, enhancing the overall user experience. Flexible spaces are integrated throughout the design, allowing for adaptations in response to the evolving needs of its inhabitants. The architectural plan includes three growth stages: an initial minimalist setting for newly married couples, a family-oriented phase with communal living areas, and a retreat designed for aging parents, thus ensuring the residence accommodates its occupants across different life stages.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

The design incorporates a range of innovative materials focused on sustainability and energy efficiency. Rammed earth panels provide thermal mass to facilitate passive cooling, while aluminum coping emphasizes durability and modernity. Solar photovoltaic panels are integrated into the roofing system to harness renewable energy. Low-emissivity coatings enhance energy efficiency, and the use of recycled materials reinforces the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Natural prefab panels for exterior cladding further enhance sustainability while maintaining cultural authenticity, establishing a strong connection between the residence and its environmental context. This approach not only addresses ecological concerns but also enriches the aesthetic narrative of the architecture.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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The Architect's Chair
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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