Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Sedar Tree-Centric Design With Modular Clay Breeze Blocks and Gabion Walls for Sustainable Living

Author:
Abdulla Abdulrahman Abdulla Alhamed
Sedar Tree-Centric Design With Modular Clay Breeze Blocks and Gabion Walls for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Integrating a central sedar tree with modular clay breeze blocks and gabion walls, the design promotes sustainable living while reflecting cultural heritage in a modern residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes modular clay breeze blocks for enhanced thermal efficiency and traditional aesthetic.
02
Incorporates gabion walls for structural stability and natural landscape integration.
03
Features a central sedar tree that serves as a focal point for outdoor living spaces.
04
Integrates advanced smart home systems for energy management and user comfort.
05
Employs an open-plan layout that fosters seamless indoor-outdoor connections.
The Dubai Living Space 4.0 is an architectural project that exemplifies contemporary residential design while embedding sustainable practices and technological innovations. This project focuses on optimizing living environments in the rapidly evolving urban landscape of Dubai, addressing the needs for both functionality and sustainability in modern housing.

The design comprises multiple levels—ground, upper ground, mezzanine, first, and top levels—each serving specific functions to enhance livability. At a total built-up area of 312.5 m², the layout is characterized by an open-plan configuration, creating fluid transitions between various spaces. This design enhances connectivity to the outdoor environment and promotes a sense of spaciousness in an urban setting.

Innovative Design Approaches and Unique Features

The project stands out through its synthesis of traditional and modern design elements. The use of modular clay breeze blocks contributes to thermal efficiency while maintaining aesthetic appeal, aligning with the regional architectural language. Gabion walls, featuring vernacular carbon 3D woven material, provide structural integrity and integrate harmoniously with the surrounding landscape, promoting a connection to nature.

Sustainable elements are integral to the architecture of Dubai Living Space 4.0. The project features elevated modular terrazzo floors that support new water reuse systems, enhancing resource efficiency. Renewable energy solutions, including solar panels, are woven into the design, ensuring minimal reliance on traditional energy sources. Additionally, smart home systems facilitate energy management and boost residential comfort.

The project emphasizes scalability and upgradeability, allowing for future enhancements without substantial modifications to the structure. This adaptability ensures long-term relevance in a dynamic urban environment.

Integration of Landscape and Cultural Elements

A notable aspect of the design is the landscape integration achieved through strategically placed hanging terraces and a central courtyard featuring a sedar tree. This not only enriches biodiversity but also provides natural cooling and air purification. The cultural context is honored through design choices that reflect local heritage, seamlessly blending modern functions with traditional aesthetics.

The architectural plans, sections, and additional presentation materials available provide further insights into the spatial organization and innovative features present in the Dubai Living Space 4.0. Readers are encouraged to explore these architectural details to gain a comprehensive understanding of this project and its contributions to contemporary urban living in Dubai.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy