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Rammed Earth Walls and Solar Towers in a Sustainable Emirati Family Home

Author:
Judit Szajcz
Rammed Earth Walls and Solar Towers in a Sustainable Emirati Family Home

Project in-detail

Innovative use of rammed earth walls and solar towers defines a sustainable Emirati residence that harmonizes traditional design with modern living, creating a functional family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth walls for superior thermal performance and energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates solar towers designed for optimal natural ventilation and energy capture.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that enhances structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for reduced carbon footprint and quick assembly.
05
Integrates a greywater recycling system for sustainable water management throughout the home.

### Project Overview
Located in the United Arab Emirates, the residence designed for an Emirati family reflects a harmonious integration of traditional architectural elements and modern sustainable practices. This design addresses ecological, social, and cultural needs by reinterpreting the historical context of Emirati courtyard houses, emphasizing the importance of community interaction and environmental responsiveness.

### Sustainability and Material Integration
The approach prioritizes sustainability through the use of local materials and innovative technologies. Key features include an integrated water management system for grey water recycling, the incorporation of solar panels for energy efficiency, and strategic layout elements that enhance cross-ventilation and natural lighting. The construction employs a diverse range of materials, such as rammed earth for thermal efficiency, concrete for structural stability, and timber for visual warmth and energy conservation. Glass elements promote connectivity with the outdoor environment, while local textiles contribute to cultural authenticity.

### Spatial Composition and Usability
Arranged over two levels, the layout progresses from communal to private spaces. The ground floor features open communal areas designed to facilitate family interaction, alongside dedicated private sections for individual rooms and technical spaces. The first floor includes bedrooms that prioritize privacy while offering scenic views, complemented by adaptable shared areas. This strategic organization promotes flow and connectivity, reflecting the cultural values of community while ensuring the safeguarding of personal space.

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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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