Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Sustainable Living Through Green Concrete and Palm Wood in Modular Housing

Author:
Krystin May Jimenez Ymson
Sustainable Living Through Green Concrete and Palm Wood in Modular Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing green concrete and palm wood, the design integrates modularity and sustainability to create adaptable housing solutions that address contemporary living needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes palm wood mashrabiyah for natural ventilation and privacy.
02
Integrates solar panels with kinetic tiles for energy efficiency.
03
Features a flexible layout with movable partitions for adaptable living.
04
Constructed with green concrete made from recycled materials.
05
Incorporates a landscape design that enhances air quality and aesthetics.
The architectural project "Slice of the Future" introduces a contemporary approach to modular living. The design focuses on flexibility and sustainability, creating a versatile housing solution in a modern context. The project utilizes a modular framework, characterized by 3 x 3 meter cube units. This layout not only optimizes spatial organization but also promotes ease of expansion to accommodate changing family structures.

The primary construction material is green concrete, which is composed of recycled aggregates. This choice highlights the project's commitment to environmental sustainability while ensuring structural durability. The use of palm wood in various design elements, particularly for the mashrabiyah cladding, provides aesthetic value and functional benefits, such as facilitating natural light and ventilation.

Modular Design and Spatial Flexibility

One of the core innovations of the project is its emphasis on modularity, allowing for various configurations and adaptations over time. The interior layout includes movable partitions made from palm wood, enabling users to redefine spaces between common areas and private rooms. This flexibility caters to diverse lifestyles, accommodating both small gatherings and larger family interactions.

The project also integrates a landscape design that connects the built environment with nature. The strategic placement of palm trees and green spaces not only enhances visual appeal but improves air quality, reinforcing the sustainable ethos of the design. Energy-efficient technologies, such as solar panels and kinetic tiles, are incorporated to minimize the building's ecological footprint. These features underscore a proactive approach to reducing energy consumption through passive systems, like radiant cooling.

Innovative Use of Traditional Elements

The implementation of traditional architectural elements, such as the mashrabiyah, illustrates a thoughtful integration of cultural heritage into a modern framework. The mashrabiyah screens provide privacy while allowing for ample airflow and natural lighting, creating comfortable living conditions. This design strategy not only respects local architectural vernacular but also contributes to the project’s environmental controls.

The proposed design facilitates a variety of potential uses, enabling families to expand their living spaces as needed, making it inherently adaptable. The clear floor plans delineate areas intended for multifunctional use, such as the integration of workspaces within residential units. The architecture reflects a sensitivity to the evolving needs of residents, positioning itself as a resource for community-oriented living.

Overall, "Slice of the Future" reflects a significant advancement in architectural design, addressing the need for sustainability and flexibility in contemporary housing. The integration of modular elements improves both utility and adaptability, while the choice of materials reinforces the project's commitment to environmental responsibility. For more detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and unique design ideas of the project, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy