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Sustainable Home Utilizing Ashcrete and EPS Panels for Enhanced Energy Efficiency

Authors:
Sophie Adaugo C. Imo, Urbi Mazhar, Barnabas Marcos Madzokere
Sustainable Home Utilizing Ashcrete and EPS Panels for Enhanced Energy Efficiency

Project in-detail

Utilizing Ashcrete and EPS panels for thermal efficiency, this innovative residential design promotes sustainable living while fostering community engagement within a family-oriented structure.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Ashcrete for sustainable construction by recycling waste materials.
02
Incorporates expanded polystyrene panels for improved thermal insulation.
03
Features flexible folding compound walls that adapt to changing needs.
04
Design includes shaded outdoor areas to enhance comfort in a hot climate.
05
Balconies are integrated into each bedroom, promoting outdoor connectivity.
The "House of the Future" project is an architectural design situated in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, aimed at addressing contemporary residential needs in an urban context. This villa promotes a modern lifestyle while incorporating sustainable practices to accommodate the needs of families in a rapidly evolving environment. The design focuses on functionality, adaptability, and community interaction, making it a significant contribution to residential architecture.

Spatial Layout and Functional Design

The design consists of two primary levels: the ground floor and the first floor. The ground floor includes communal areas such as the living room and kitchen, facilitating social interaction among residents. The open layout fosters a seamless transition between spaces, allowing for family gatherings and daily activities to occur effortlessly. The first floor is reserved for private quarters, featuring bedrooms strategically designed with balconies to enhance personal space while maintaining a visual connection to the outdoors.

The project employs a thoughtful arrangement of sections, creating clear relationships between different areas. The vertical connection facilitated by an open stair lobby promotes communication among residents, while the horizontal layout provides privacy when needed. Each space is designed to cater to both communal living and individual retreat, reflecting a balanced approach to domestic architecture.

Innovative Material Choices and Construction Techniques

The project integrates a diverse range of materials chosen for their performance characteristics and sustainability. Expanded Polystyrene Panels (EPS) offer lightweight insulation, enhancing energy efficiency. Ashcrete is utilized for its sustainable properties, transforming waste materials into a functional construction material. Palmwood is incorporated for aesthetic warmth, symbolizing local cultural elements while promoting ecological responsibility. Aluminum is selected for structural components, benefiting from its durability and resistance to the local climate.

The construction employs Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF), optimizing energy performance while ensuring safety in extreme weather conditions. This method allows for flexibility in design, accommodating modifications to meet evolving resident needs without extensive renovation.

Sustainable Design Approach and Community Focus

The "House of the Future" embodies a sustainable architectural approach through its shading techniques, which mitigate the harsh sun typical of Dubai's climate. By providing shaded outdoor areas, the design encourages social interaction and engagement with the environment. Additionally, adaptable spaces, such as folding compound walls, enable versatility, allowing residents to adjust living arrangements based on their preferences.

The integration of private balconies and outdoor views reinforces connections with nature, promoting overall well-being. The project emphasizes family unity while respecting individual privacy, a unique aspect in modern residential design.

The "House of the Future" showcases a comprehensive understanding of contemporary architectural requirements, combining functionality with sustainability. To explore further details, including architectural plans, sections, and innovative design approaches, readers are encouraged to examine the project presentation for an in-depth look at its design elements and concepts.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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