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Sustainable Living in Rammed Earth with High-Performance Glass and Native Landscaping

Author:
Amira Salaheldin Saleh Youssef Azmy
Sustainable Living in Rammed Earth with High-Performance Glass and Native Landscaping

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth and high-performance glass, the villa integrates passive design principles and indigenous landscaping to create a sustainable and comfortable residential environment in the desert.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced rammed earth, enhancing thermal efficiency.
02
Large expanses of high-performance glass optimize natural light while minimizing heat gain.
03
Innovative rainwater harvesting system integrated into the landscape for irrigation.
04
Landscaping features indigenous plants to reduce water consumption and support local biodiversity.
05
Smart home technology incorporated to manage energy use based on occupancy and conditions.

**Overview**

Located in the UAE's desert landscape, the Sand Dunes-Inspired Villa project aims to integrate human habitation with the surrounding natural environment. This design embraces the aesthetics of the desert while prioritizing sustainability and energy efficiency. The architectural framework reflects the region’s unique characteristics, allowing for the creation of a dwelling that remains in harmony with its topography and climate.

**Sustainable Architectural Strategies**

The design incorporates several sustainable strategies to minimize environmental impact. Key features include passive solar design, which optimizes the villa's orientation to maximize natural light while reducing solar heat gain, thereby minimizing reliance on artificial lighting and cooling systems. Photovoltaic panels are integrated into the roof to capitalize on the abundant solar energy available in the region, ensuring a sustainable power supply. The layout encourages natural ventilation, enhancing comfort without extensive mechanical reliance. Additionally, water efficiency measures, such as rainwater harvesting and sustainable fixtures, contribute to the villa's resource management in an arid climate.

**Material Selection and Cultural Relevance**

Materials used in the construction of the villa are selected for their environmental performance and relevance to local traditions. The use of adobe or rammed earth for exterior walls provides excellent thermal mass, while recycled steel enhances structural integrity and reduces waste. High-performance glass with low-emissivity coatings is strategically placed to improve energy efficiency and optimize views. Sustainably sourced wood is utilized for interior elements, reflecting local craftsmanship and adding warmth to the living spaces. This approach not only addresses ecological concerns but also emphasizes the connection to the cultural heritage of the UAE, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

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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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