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Stabilized Soil and Compressed Clay Forming an Eco-Conscious Family Residence

Authors:
Octavio Lugo Aguirre, Guadalupe D Alvarez Gonzalez, Marisol Alejandra Alvidrez Gonzalez
Stabilized Soil and Compressed Clay Forming an Eco-Conscious Family Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing stabilized soil and compressed clay, the residence integrates traditional construction techniques with modern sustainability metrics to provide a comfortable family living environment in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced stabilized soil to enhance thermal efficiency.
02
Incorporates compressed clay blocks to reduce environmental impact.
03
Features an extensive use of passive design strategies for natural ventilation.
04
Utilizes photovoltaic panels for energy generation and sustainability.
05
Integrates outdoor terraces that seamlessly connect with indoor living spaces.

# Detailed Analytical Report on the Architectural Project: NOVAHAUSER

## Overview
NOVAHAUSER is situated in Dubai, a city recognized for its unique blend of tradition and modernity. The design of the residence reflects a commitment to addressing the climatic, cultural, and social contexts of the region, aiming to serve not only as a living space but also as a dialogue with its environment. The project emphasizes the integration of local cultural elements with contemporary living standards, producing a structure that responds effectively to the specific needs of its inhabitants.

### Spatial Strategy
The architectural layout features a deliberate arrangement of three primary volumes designated for distinct functions: a living area for communal activities, a service area for operational needs, and outdoor spaces that encourage interaction with nature. On the ground level, open social spaces are designed to foster gatherings while providing direct access to private outdoor patios. The upper level is reserved for bedrooms, facilitating privacy and tranquility with views that enhance the overall residential experience. This configuration balances communal and private zones, supporting diverse family dynamics.

### Material Selection
Key to the project's ethos, the material palette is carefully chosen to optimize performance in Dubai's environment. The use of Stabilized Soil/Mud Block (SSMB) enhances thermal insulation while utilizing locally sourced materials. Pumice sand and mortar mix contribute to the energy efficiency of the exterior walls, providing durability and high thermal mass. Solar technologies, including photovoltaic panels and solar water heaters, augment the building's sustainable framework by harnessing renewable energy. Permeable paving stones facilitate natural water filtration, promoting ecological responsibility without compromising functionality.

### Sustainability Integration
The residence emphasizes passive design strategies to enhance energy efficiency and comfort. Natural ventilation is maximized through strategic layout choices that guide airflow, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. An integrated energy management system allows for the optimization of energy usage, while water conservation measures, including a solar-assisted hot water reserve, further minimize electricity dependency. Collectively, these features support a holistic approach to sustainability, aligning with contemporary needs while honoring traditional 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
competition now

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