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Solar-Powered Habitat Featuring 3D Printed Concrete and Native Landscaping

Author:
Liyang Wang
Solar-Powered Habitat Featuring 3D Printed Concrete and Native Landscaping

Project in-detail

Utilizing 3D printed concrete and low-E glass, this sustainable development integrates native landscaping with communal outdoor spaces to create a versatile residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printed concrete for reduced waste and efficient construction.
02
Incorporates native plant species in landscaping to enhance biodiversity.
03
Features low-E glass for improved thermal performance and energy efficiency.
04
Offers flexible living spaces designed for adaptability to family needs.
05
Integrates communal outdoor lounges fostering neighborhood interaction.

### Overview

Located in Dubai, the Domestic Mini-City is designed to advance the concept of urban micro-living, combining advanced technological integration with elements rooted in local cultural traditions. This residential project aims to foster community engagement through a multifaceted living environment while addressing the principles of sustainability and smart urban development. The design prioritizes interplay between architectural innovation and environmental responsibility.

### Spatial Organization

The project's layout is meticulously planned to balance both communal and private spaces. Private living areas consist of several master bedrooms with direct access to individual terraces, promoting a sense of privacy while maintaining connectivity to shared spaces. Centralized communal areas, such as outdoor lounges and gardens, serve as focal points for social interaction, featuring traditional seating arrangements that honor cultural heritage. The design integrates flexibility, with adaptable rooms for kitchens and shared spaces to accommodate varying family dynamics. Vertical circulation is enhanced through an open design, incorporating external stairs leading to rooftop terraces that promote communal living.

### Materiality and Sustainable Practices

The project employs a range of materials that support sustainability, aesthetics, and functionality. Use of 3D printed concrete facilitates complex forms while minimizing construction waste. Incorporation of local plant species not only enhances the ecological footprint but also contributes to the aesthetic quality of the environment. Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass is utilized for its thermal performance, reducing dependency on artificial cooling systems. Concrete pavers are selected for outdoor areas to ensure lasting durability and ease of maintenance.

Design elements such as intricate façade patterns inspired by traditional Islamic art emphasize cultural relevance, while integrated photovoltaic panels on rooftops promote energy efficiency. The design optimizes solar exposure specific to the region's climate, and natural ventilation systems are incorporated to enhance indoor air quality, reducing energy consumption. Green roofs and terraces enrich biodiversity, contributing to building insulation and providing recreational spaces for residents.

Each of these components reflects a commitment to contemporary urban living that aligns with sustainability and community dynamics.

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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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