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Spherical Ceilings and Reflective Surfaces Within a Sustainable Concrete Residence Adjacent to Natural Waterways

Author:
Olha Kleitman
Spherical Ceilings and Reflective Surfaces Within a Sustainable Concrete Residence Adjacent to Natural Waterways

Project in-detail

Incorporating a spherical ceiling that mirrors the region's salt formations, this residence utilizes Roman concrete and expansive glass to create an energy-efficient home that harmonizes with its natural waterway surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates an artificial lake that enhances thermal comfort through passive cooling.
02
Features a spherical ceiling design that evokes local salt formations.
03
Utilizes Roman concrete for structural durability and environmental resilience.
04
Maximizes natural light and views through expansive glass surfaces.
05
Integrates biophilic principles to strengthen connections with the surrounding landscape.

## Overview

The Salt House is strategically located near the Al Wathba salt lake, characterized by contrasting white salt formations and blue-green waters. The design reflects a commitment to integrating modern architectural practices with the unique environmental context of the site, resulting in a residence that harmonizes with its surroundings.

### Architectural Composition

The structure is designed in a rectangular form, oriented to maximize views of the lake while maintaining privacy. The main façade is equipped with carefully placed openings that facilitate ventilation and visual connections to both the courtyard and the exterior landscape. A defining feature is the spherical ceiling in the main sitting area, which mirrors the natural shapes of salt formations, reinforcing the relationship between the interior and the changing outdoor conditions. The inclusion of water features further enhances natural ventilation and temperature regulation within the home.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Material selection is crucial to the project’s sustainability objectives. The structure incorporates:

- **Roman Concrete**: Utilized for its durability and traditional roots, this material reduces environmental impact by blending historical techniques with contemporary design.
- **Sandstone**: Selected for its local relevance, this stone supports the aesthetic continuity with the landscape while ensuring robust structural performance.
- **Glass**: Predominantly used in windows and panels, glass optimizes natural light entry and provides unobstructed views of the surrounding environment.

These materials contribute to effective thermal regulation and energy efficiency, aligning with a broader commitment to sustainable living practices. The integration of an artificial lake offers climate control benefits while enhancing the sensory experience of the residence. The flexible interior layout promotes adaptability for occupants, facilitating a variety of interactions and communal or private spaces according to needs.

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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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