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Robotic Fabrication and Sand Composites in Flexible Emirati Living Spaces

Authors:
Martin Santiago Naranjo Palacios, Esteban Javier Naranjo Palacios, Lauri Natalya Van Weerdenburg Moreira, Daniel Andres Viera Segovia
Robotic Fabrication and Sand Composites in Flexible Emirati Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Integrating robotic fabrication with locally sourced sand composites, this residence offers a flexible living environment that adapts to the dynamic needs of its inhabitants in the Emirati context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a Functional Adjacency Algorithm to enhance spatial relationships between living areas.
02
Constructed using local sand composites for reduced environmental impact.
03
Utilizes robotic arms for precise, automated fabrication of complex structural elements.
04
Features an advanced water recollection system for sustainable resource management.
05
Incorporates photovoltaic panels seamlessly into the design for energy efficiency.

## Overview

The Automata project is a forward-thinking residential architecture initiative located in the Emirati landscape, designed with a focus on adaptability and sustainability. It engages with local environmental conditions and cultural nuances, aiming to meet the evolving needs of its residents over time. The project emphasizes a conceptual framework that integrates advanced automation technology, allowing for a responsive living environment that reflects the complexities of modern lifestyles.

### Spatial Strategy and Architectural Form

Central to the design is the Functional Adjacency Algorithm, which establishes a flexible layout that optimizes the relationships among various functional spaces within the home. The architectural form features vaulted structures resembling tent-like canopies, supported by a compression-based design. This creates a self-supporting system that combines structural integrity with visual appeal. The varied heights of the arches generate diverse spatial experiences, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The incorporation of biomimicry influences the wall geometries, utilizing fractals and monolithic blocks to create a harmonious intersection of performance and visual coherence.

### Sustainable Material Practices

A deliberate selection of materials underpins the project’s commitment to sustainability. Sand composites, derived from local resources, serve as the main building material, promoting ecological awareness while maintaining aesthetic cohesion. Advanced compression-based techniques enhance the performance and durability of these materials, while recycled plastics are integrated into window shading systems, aligning with local design traditions. The addition of photovoltaic panels further supports energy efficiency, contributing to the building's self-sufficiency through renewable energy utilization.

### Environmental Strategies

The project incorporates several sustainable strategies that underscore its environmental commitment. A water recollection system effectively channels rainwater to underground storage, providing a resource during arid periods. Energy optimization is achieved through strategically placed photovoltaic panels that maximize solar exposure, minimizing reliance on non-renewable energy sources. A holistic design approach seamlessly integrates water, energy, and temperature management throughout the space, demonstrating an understanding of ecological interactions and technological sophistication.

The use of robotic arms in construction exemplifies the project’s embrace of digital fabrication, enabling precise production of intricate components and allowing for a flexible construction timeline. This method addresses potential changes during the building process, fostering a responsive design ethos while promoting a connection to the natural environment through architectural forms that resonate with local context.

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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
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