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Sustainable Coral Block Residence Featuring Natural Cork Cladding and Green Roof Integration

Author:
Rutger Margarethus Helenus Maria Jacob Ebben
Sustainable Coral Block Residence Featuring Natural Cork Cladding and Green Roof Integration

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainable practices, the residence utilizes coral block construction and cork cladding while integrating green roofs to create an environmentally sensitive living space in the heart of Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes coral blocks for superior thermal performance in desert conditions.
02
Incorporates cork cladding to enhance natural ventilation and insulation.
03
Features a green roof designed to promote local biodiversity.
04
Employs rainwater harvesting for sustainable water management.
05
Integrates flexible indoor spaces to accommodate varying family needs.

### Project Overview

Located in Dubai, the Dunes of Dubai project embodies a modern architectural ethos that integrates traditional elements with sustainable practices. The design offers a residential solution tailored to the unique climate of the region, prioritizing energy efficiency and minimizing environmental impact. By innovating on established architectural forms, this project aims to create a habitat that thoughtfully addresses ecological concerns in a desert context.

### Spatial Organization and Architectural Features

The layout of the structure includes a synthesis of sharp and curved lines, featuring pointed arches inspired by traditional Islamic architecture. These architectural elements not only serve an aesthetic purpose but also enhance natural light and ventilation. The multi-storied design incorporates a flat roof, which allows for future expansion, ensuring adaptability to the changing needs of its occupants. Outdoor spaces, including gardens and green roofs, are integral to the layout, promoting biodiversity while effectively connecting the indoor and outdoor environments.

### Sustainable Strategies

The project incorporates multiple sustainable innovations aimed at reducing reliance on conventional energy and water systems. Air recovery systems for cooling are utilized to decrease dependence on typical HVAC methods, while rainwater harvesting features enable the collection and reuse of water. Additionally, an evaluation shows potential for hydro-powered energy generation, emphasizing the project's self-sufficiency. The thoughtful selection of materials, including cork cladding, biobased substances, and coral blocks, reflects a commitment to sustainability while respecting the local architectural vernacular.

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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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