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Sustainable Family Living With Hemp-Lime Walls and Natural Ventilation Solutions

Author:
Ako Hassan Marzang
Sustainable Family Living With Hemp-Lime Walls and Natural Ventilation Solutions

Project in-detail

Combining hemp-lime construction with natural ventilation techniques, the design fosters an energy-efficient environment conducive to multi-generational living in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with expandable modular units to accommodate evolving family needs.
02
Incorporates wind towers for enhanced natural ventilation and reduced energy consumption.
03
Utilizes hemp-lime concrete for superior insulation and sustainable construction.
04
Features a culturally inspired facade with geometric patterns for solar shading.
05
Employs processed cork flooring for comfort and eco-friendly sourcing.

## Project Overview

Located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the design of "A House for Future" explores concepts of modern residential living to meet the needs of a growing, multi-generational population. This project integrates functional and sustainable elements with a focus on enhancing family connectivity while accommodating various lifestyles. The innovative design aims to redefine traditional notions of home, promoting generosity in living spaces without sacrificing privacy.

### Adaptable Spatial Configuration

The residential design employs a modular approach, enabling flexibility in the configuration of living spaces in response to the evolving dynamics of a family structure. Key features include expandable modules that can adjust the number of bedrooms and communal areas, supporting diverse lifestyle requirements. The layout is organized to create a balance between communal and private spaces, promoting interaction among residents while ensuring personal privacy.

### Energy Efficiency and Climate Responsiveness

The design takes into account the subtropical-arid climate of Dubai by implementing passive design strategies that prioritize sustainability and energy conservation. Key initiatives include:

- **Natural Ventilation**: Wind towers are strategically positioned to facilitate air circulation, reducing the need for mechanical cooling systems.
- **Solar Orientation and Daylight Management**: The facade is oriented to optimize daylight while incorporating shading techniques to mitigate heat gain during peak sunlight hours.
- **Rainwater Harvesting Systems**: Rooftop collection systems channel water to underground storage tanks, promoting water conservation.

These strategies, alongside the implementation of renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic panels, underline the commitment to sustainable building practices.

### Material Selection and Craftsmanship

The material choices reflect an emphasis on environmental responsibility and functional aesthetics. Features include:

1. **Hemp-lime Concrete**: Used for exterior walls, offering excellent insulation and sustainability.
2. **Lime Mortar**: Applied for interior finishes, enhancing indoor air quality through breathability.
3. **Reinforced Concrete**: Ensuring structural integrity across the design.
4. **Processed Cork**: Selected for flooring due to its comfort and ecological sourcing.

This blend of materials balances modern construction techniques with traditional craftsmanship, contributing to the overall sustainability and aesthetic appeal of the home.

### Architectural Features and Technology

Distinctive architectural elements enrich the design, including geometric façade patterns inspired by Islamic traditions that provide both aesthetic quality and functional shading. The emphasis on smart technology allows homeowners to manage lighting, temperature, and security systems through mobile applications, incorporating convenience within the living environment.

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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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