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Sclereified Palm Bark Structures in Sustainable Residential Development

Author:
Catharina Jacobo De Haas
Sclereified Palm Bark Structures in Sustainable Residential Development

Project in-detail

Utilizing sclereified palm bark for structural integrity, this residential development integrates communal gardens and flexible living spaces, addressing modern family needs while emphasizing sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes sclereified palm bark for structural elements, enhancing thermal performance.
02
Modular layout allows for vertical and horizontal expansion as family needs change.
03
Incorporates wind towers for natural ventilation and temperature regulation.
04
Features communal gardens designed to promote social interaction and biodiversity.
05
Emphasizes local craftsmanship with materials sourced from the surrounding region.

## Overview

Located in a region steeped in cultural heritage, the project draws inspiration from traditional Arabic house designs while addressing contemporary residential needs. It focuses on integrating sustainable practices and promoting communal living, reflecting a vision that honors its cultural context while meeting future housing demands.

## Spatial Design and Flexibility

The spatial organization emphasizes adaptability to accommodate diverse family structures over time. The layout comprises distinct zones, including private areas such as bedrooms that ensure seclusion, and communal zones that foster social interaction, including living rooms and gardens. This modular approach allows for future expansions, either vertically or horizontally, thereby encouraging community collaboration and interaction among neighbors.

### Material Selection

Materials chosen for the project highlight both aesthetic and functional objectives. The primary building block is a sustainable brick, inspired by the bark of palm trees, which provides thermal efficiency and visual appeal. Complementary materials include:
- **Palm Brick**: This brick, made from "sclereified" palm bark, enhances structural performance.
- **Sandstone**: Known for its heat-dissipating properties, it complements the local climate.
- **Reinforced Concrete**: Used alongside the Palm Brick for stability.
- **Glass**: Incorporated in openings and partitions to optimize natural light and spatial perception.
- **Natural Finishes**: Selected to suit the arid environment and enhance insulation.

This focus on local materials supports the project's sustainability goals by reducing environmental impact and promoting energy efficiency.

## Technological Features

The design integrates traditional ecological knowledge with modern innovations to enhance energy efficiency. Key strategies include:
- **Natural Cooling Systems**: Wind towers and shaded facades are employed for passive temperature regulation.
- **Renewable Energy Solutions**: Solar panels and hydro-panels provide sustainable energy and water resources.
- **Microclimate Development**: Gardens and indoor planting areas promote biodiversity and aesthetic enhancement.

These technological components work in tandem with the architectural design, exemplifying a commitment to sustainability while addressing modern residential needs.

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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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