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Solar-Powered Shelter Using Local Stone and Wood for Sustainable Farming Community

Authors:
Ibrahim Almahllawi, Abdulaziz Alnuqaydan, Mohannad Alrumayan, Abdulbasit Almhafdy
Solar-Powered Shelter Using Local Stone and Wood for Sustainable Farming Community

Project in-detail

Utilizing local stone and wood, the shelter incorporates solar energy solutions to create a sustainable habitat for farmers, revitalizing agricultural practices within the community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Solar panels integrated into an anti-terrace enhance energy efficiency.
02
Local stone provides effective thermal insulation for the shelter.
03
Wood shading devices connect modern construction to local craftsmanship.
04
Design supports both private living and communal agricultural activities.
05
Strategic layout minimizes temperature fluctuations in living spaces.

The Farmer Shelter project is situated in Qassim Buraidah, Saudi Arabia. It aims to tackle challenges faced by the agricultural community in the region. The design merges natural elements with built spaces, creating a sustainable home for farmers while also bringing back traditional agricultural practices. It addresses the ongoing movement of people from rural to urban areas, presenting a functional solution that integrates modern amenities with agricultural lifestyles.

Architectural Concept

The main idea behind the Farmer Shelter is the connection between the built environment and nature. This approach helps to lower temperatures and supports the revival of traditional farming practices. The layout is carefully designed to balance private living areas with shared agricultural spaces. This balance promotes community interaction while still serving the needs of individuals.

Spatial Organization

The design focuses on how space is used. Private areas for living are placed next to communal agricultural spaces to encourage a feeling of community. This arrangement allows residents to engage with one another and work collaboratively, reflecting the importance of shared efforts in agriculture. The flexible design supports different activities, ultimately promoting farming productivity.

Materiality

Material choice plays a significant role in achieving sustainability goals. Local stone is used for its effective thermal insulation, helping to improve energy efficiency while reducing environmental impact. Wood is chosen for flooring and shading, connecting the shelter to local craftsmanship and providing practical benefits. Concrete acts as the primary structural element, ensuring strength and durability against various environmental factors.

Design Detail

A notable aspect of the Farmer Shelter is the inclusion of an anti-terrace that features solar panels. This design not only aids energy sustainability but also enhances the visual appeal of the building within its landscape. The project carefully considers natural light and utilizes local materials, creating an environment that supports both agricultural work and modern 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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