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Solar Windows and Nano-Fiber Insulation in a Sustainable Residential Design

Solar Windows and Nano-Fiber Insulation in a Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Integrating solar windows and advanced nano-fiber insulation, the design emphasizes resource efficiency and environmental sensitivity while providing a modern residential space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates solar windows that generate energy while providing natural light.
02
Utilizes advanced nano-fiber insulation for enhanced thermal efficiency.
03
Features a water production system that recycles gray water for landscape irrigation.
04
Constructed with pre-engineered steel to minimize waste during assembly.
05
Integrates flexible living spaces to accommodate diverse occupant needs.

# Architectural Design Report: Villa Verde

## Overview
Villa Verde is situated in Dubai, a rapidly evolving urban environment, and is designed to fulfill contemporary living requirements while prioritizing environmental sustainability. With a total area of 300 square meters on a 450 square meter plot, the villa integrates modern architecture with eco-friendly practices aimed at enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

## Spatial Strategy and User Experience
The architectural layout emphasizes flexibility and functionality, catering to the diverse needs of its inhabitants. The design includes spacious living and dining areas that facilitate social interaction while accommodating traditional gatherings. The kitchens are efficiently designed, featuring direct access to outdoor spaces, thereby fostering a connection between the indoor and outdoor environments. Large windows in bedrooms and private areas enhance natural ventilation and light, contributing to an inviting atmosphere. Outdoor spaces are thoughtfully landscaped, providing recreational opportunities that promote biodiversity.

## Material Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives
Villa Verde prioritizes the use of sustainable materials to reduce environmental impact. Local stone and glass are utilized to minimize transportation emissions, while advanced nano-fiber insulation enhances thermal performance, thereby improving energy efficiency. The structural framework is composed of pre-engineered steel components, which reduce construction waste and facilitate quicker assembly. The incorporation of solar windows with integrated photovoltaic technology serves to generate renewable energy, substantially lowering reliance on traditional energy sources.

Additionally, innovative systems such as an efficient water production mechanism that recycles gray water and natural filtration for waste management are integral to the villa's sustainability strategy. These features enable the residence to generate up to 900 liters of drinkable water daily while recycling 75% of gray water for non-potable applications, promoting responsible resource management. The expected energy consumption is estimated at only 87 kWh per day, further underscoring the project's commitment to sustainability.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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