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Spherical Modules Constructed with Fiber-Reinforced Concrete for Sustainable Living in Arid Landscapes

Author:
Saifur Rahman
Spherical Modules Constructed with Fiber-Reinforced Concrete for Sustainable Living in Arid Landscapes

Project in-detail

Spherical modules crafted from fiber-reinforced concrete, equipped with advanced water management systems, reshape sustainable living in the arid landscape of Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spherical modules optimize heat management by minimizing surface area exposure.
02
Advanced water retention systems support surrounding landscape irrigation.
03
Construction utilizes fiber-reinforced concrete for enhanced durability and insulation.
04
Local soil is incorporated into landscaping, promoting ecosystem sustainability.
05
The layout fosters community interaction through interconnected living spaces.

### Project Overview
The House of the Future, located in Dubai, represents an exploration of sustainable living tailored to the unique challenges presented by an arid urban environment. This design prioritizes the integration of modern habitation with ecological sustainability, aiming to create a self-sufficient living space that engages with and enhances its surroundings. The project seeks to address issues such as resource efficiency and community cohesion, reflecting a progressive vision in urban design.

### Water Management Strategies
A notable aspect of the design is its innovative approach to water management. The incorporation of a water retention pool allows for the collection of treated wastewater from the residence, facilitating landscape irrigation and supporting local biodiversity. This system not only promotes the growth of vegetation around the home but also contributes positively to the microclimate of the adjacent arid landscape, further mitigating desertification.

### Modular Design Approach
Comprising interconnected spherical modules, the building design serves multiple living functions while minimizing overall surface area. This approach effectively reduces heat absorption, resulting in improved energy efficiency. The placement of these spherical forms is strategically organized around a supportive infrastructure, enabling discreet integration of utility systems. This modular configuration reflects a commitment to both functional adaptability and aesthetic fluidity, capturing organic design principles in response to environmental conditions.

### Material Selection
The materials chosen for construction are integral to the project's sustainability goals. Fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) is employed in the spherical modules, offering durability while maintaining a lightweight structure that enhances insulation. Additionally, the landscaping utilizes local soil and native plants to maximize water retention, fostering an ecosystem that supports diverse flora and fauna. The use of natural stones and earthen textures not only strengthens the visual and tactile connection to the desert landscape but also aligns with sustainable building practices.

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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
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