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Sail-Inspired Structure Featuring Natural Stone Cladding and Sustainable Concrete Solutions

Author:
Amine Riad Makkouk
Sail-Inspired Structure Featuring Natural Stone Cladding and Sustainable Concrete Solutions

Project in-detail

Inspired by the form of traditional dhows and constructed with natural stone cladding and sustainable concrete, the residence seamlessly blends cultural heritage with modern living requirements.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by traditional dhow design to enhance cultural relevance.
02
Constructed with sustainable concrete solutions for improved resource efficiency.
03
Features natural stone cladding to integrate with the surrounding environment.
04
Utilizes large glass openings for optimal natural light and ventilation.
05
Designed with accessible elements to accommodate all residents.

## Project Overview

Located in Dubai, this residential design draws inspiration from the city’s maritime heritage, particularly the traditional dhows that have played a crucial role in the region's trading history. The intent is to craft a modern living space that respects and reflects these cultural elements while incorporating sustainable practices throughout the design.

### Spatial Dynamics and User Experience

The layout prioritizes communal living, with interconnected spaces that foster interaction while also providing private areas for family members. The ground floor features an entrance and garage with a "Sail Tent" covering, living and dining areas that promote fluid transitions to outdoor spaces, and a kitchen designed for family interactions. The first floor is dedicated to comfortable bedrooms with balconies overlooking landscaped gardens, complemented by recreational spaces that encourage family engagement. The roof floor houses utility areas and viewpoints for relaxation and socializing, designed to enhance the indoor-outdoor connection.

### Materiality and Sustainability

A careful selection of materials underpins the project’s design philosophy. Concrete provides structural integrity, while aluminum window frames offer durability and resistance to the coastal environment. Glass is utilized extensively to maximize natural light, facilitating a connection to the outdoors. Stone cladding evokes traditional building methods, complementing the modern design. Wood is incorporated in interior elements to add warmth and aesthetic appeal. Sustainable practices are integral, featuring solar panels for energy generation, the use of treated sewage water for non-drinking purposes, and natural ventilation strategies that reduce reliance on mechanical cooling systems. Additionally, accessibility features such as ramps cater to all users, underscoring a commitment to inclusive design.

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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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