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Sandstone Walls and Palm Frond Roofs in a Sustainable Family Dwelling

Authors:
Alberto Pizzoli, Gregorio Pecorelli, Andrea Bellincampi
Sandstone Walls and Palm Frond Roofs in a Sustainable Family Dwelling

Project in-detail

Constructed with locally sourced sandstone walls and a palm frond roof, this sustainable family dwelling emphasizes natural cooling and cultural heritage within a modern living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced sandstone to enhance thermal efficiency.
02
Incorporates a traditional palm frond roof for natural insulation and aesthetics.
03
Features a central courtyard designed for passive cooling and social interaction.
04
Utilizes a wind tower to promote natural ventilation throughout the dwelling.
05
Emphasizes a commitment to cultural heritage through modern design principles.

## Overview

Located in the United Arab Emirates, the project emphasizes a contemporary interpretation of traditional Emirati vernacular architecture. It utilizes local cultural and environmental principles to create a residential space that not only respects historical elements but also champions sustainability. Key aspects of the design include natural ventilation, community engagement, and the use of indigenous materials, all aimed at fostering a sense of belonging and continuity.

## Spatial Strategy

At the core of the design is a traditional house form influenced by the “Bajjel,” characterized by shaded courtyards and open layouts. The ground floor features a central courtyard designed to facilitate family interactions, accompanied by flowing living areas that enhance connectivity. Service areas are strategically placed for privacy, while the first floor includes bedrooms organized around secondary courtyards, ensuring both personal space and engagement with communal areas. This approach reflects a balanced architectural philosophy prioritizing privacy, community living, and a strong connection with nature.

## Materiality and Environmental Integration

The project employs materials that are suited to the desert climate, such as sandstone, plaster, clay, and palm fronds. Sandstone serves as a durable element harmonizing with the landscape, while plaster and clay walls provide effective thermal insulation. Palm fronds are utilized for roofs, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Additionally, large windows facilitate natural light and airflow, contributing to the building's environmental responsiveness.

A prominent feature is the wind tower, which acts as a natural ventilation mechanism, ensuring a continuous flow of cooler air throughout the residence. The staggered massing of the façade reduces the perception of bulk, creating inviting entrances and shaded outdoor areas that promote community interaction. The color palette, anchored in earth tones, complements the surroundings and reinforces the connection between the built environment and the natural landscape.

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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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