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Sustainable Adobe Construction Enhanced By Vertical Greenery In A Modern Family Residence

Author:
Christian Guillermo Del Valle Escalante
Sustainable Adobe Construction Enhanced By Vertical Greenery In A Modern Family Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating thermal adobe walls and vertical gardens, this modern residence prioritizes sustainability and efficient energy use in its design, serving as an ideal family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with thermal adobe for enhanced insulation and energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates vertical gardens that contribute to air quality and aesthetics.
03
Features a flexible layout designed for future expansion based on family needs.
04
Utilizes recycled greywater systems for sustainable irrigation practices.
05
Emphasizes natural light through strategically placed windows and open spaces.

## Overview

Located in Dubai on a 450 m² plot, the Pachamama House integrates principles of sustainability and cultural sensitivity within its architectural framework. The design concept draws inspiration from the environmental ethos encapsulated in its name, which translates to "Mother Earth." By utilizing local materials and innovative technologies, the project aims to create a living space that is both modern and harmonized with its climatic and cultural context.

## Spatial Configuration

The spatial arrangement of Pachamama House is developed to enhance usability and efficiency. It features three distinct levels:

- **Basement Level**: Designated for utility, this floor includes essential spaces such as a maid's room, laundry, pantry, and a washroom, totaling 31.75 m².
- **Ground Floor**: This main living area encompasses an expansive dining space, kitchen, living room, and multiple washrooms, amounting to 164.11 m², promoting social interaction and connectivity.
- **First Floor**: Focused on privacy, this level comprises several bedrooms, each with attached washrooms and dressing areas, covering 104.48 m². The layout promotes flow and accessibility while incorporating green spaces to enhance natural light and airflow throughout the structure.

## Material Selection and Green Solutions

The material choices for Pachamama House are deliberate, merging traditional and contemporary elements. Concrete columns and beams provide structural integrity, allowing for adaptable spaces, while adobe blocks deliver excellent thermal and acoustic insulation, contributing to overall energy efficiency. The use of stone cladding not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also establishes a dialogue with the natural surroundings.

Notably, the incorporation of vertical gardens and green roofs plays a crucial role in temperature regulation and air quality enhancement. These features reduce interior temperatures and improve the microclimate, making it suitable for Dubai's environment.

Sustainability is further reinforced through the integration of a grey water recycling system, designed to optimize resource use for irrigation, alongside an energy-efficient design that includes LED lighting and solar panels. The adaptation potential of the house is evident, with expandable areas designed to accommodate the evolving needs of its occupants over time.

## Cultural Connectivity and Design Innovation

The architectural narrative of Pachamama House is deeply rooted in the context of its location. The use of adobe and natural materials establishes a strong cultural reference, juxtaposed with modern design elements characterized by angular forms and open spaces. This combination not only respects traditional architectural styles but also provides a contemporary response to the environment.

The design promotes a significant connection between internal and external spaces through open layouts and integrated gardens, fostering an interaction with nature and enhancing overall living experiences. This careful consideration of cultural and environmental factors positions Pachamama House as a noteworthy contribution to sustainable architecture in Dubai.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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