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Solar-Powered Residence with Thermal Brick Insulation and Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living

Author:
Ramu Subah
Solar-Powered Residence with Thermal Brick Insulation and Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating thermal brick insulation and an energy-efficient solar panel system, the residence enhances its environmental performance while providing spacious indoor and outdoor living areas for family cohesion.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates thermal brick insulation for enhanced energy efficiency.
02
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes structural integrity.
03
Utilizes a solar panel system for reduced energy consumption.
04
Integrates extensive outdoor spaces for seamless family interaction.
05
Employs heat-reflective materials to mitigate heat absorption.

## Overview
The House of the Future is a sustainable family residence located in the United Arab Emirates, designed to integrate modern living with cultural representation and environmental responsibility. The intention behind the design is to embody principles of adaptability and family dynamics while reflecting the values and aspirations of contemporary society.

### Spatial Configuration and Functionality
The residence spans two levels, encompassing a total building area of 320 square meters on a 500 square meter plot. The ground floor features a series of interconnected family-oriented spaces, including a living room, dining area, and kitchen, each arranged to promote both interaction and privacy. Natural light and ventilation are prioritized through the incorporation of skylights and strategically placed windows, enhancing both comfort and energy efficiency. Additionally, outdoor spaces such as gardens and a swimming pool extend the living area, fostering communal activities and encouraging a connection with nature.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The construction employs a mix of concrete and steel, augmented by thermal bricks to improve insulation. The exterior is clad with heat-reflective white paint and heat-resistant aluminum panels, balancing durability with aesthetic cohesion. The design includes a cavity wall system that offers moisture, sun, and heat resistance, promoting longevity and lowering maintenance needs. A commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated through the integration of solar panels and natural ventilation systems, which collectively enhance energy efficiency and reduce reliance on artificial cooling.

The landscape is purposefully designed to provide ecological benefits and recreational space, reinforcing the connection between indoor and outdoor environments. The emphasis on passive cooling strategies and the use of renewable energy sources contribute to a significantly reduced ecological footprint, promoting a responsible approach to urban living.

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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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