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Sustainable Living Through Green Roof Systems and Natural Light in Modern Concrete Design

Author:
Ruchi Chowdhary
Sustainable Living Through Green Roof Systems and Natural Light in Modern Concrete Design

Project in-detail

Incorporating a green roof system and traditional Barjeel for passive ventilation, this residence utilizes textured concrete and expansive glass to create a harmonious living environment in Dubai's unique climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a traditional Barjeel for natural ventilation.
02
Integrates a green roof system for thermal insulation.
03
Utilizes textured concrete for both aesthetics and performance.
04
Features extensive glass panels that maximize daylight.
05
Employs sustainable energy solutions including solar panels.

## Project Overview
Located in Dubai, the residential design integrates traditional architectural aesthetics with contemporary design principles, focusing on energy-efficient living and modern technological applications. The intent is to address the unique climatic and cultural context of the region while promoting a blend of functionality and visual appeal.

### Design Integration
The architectural framework juxtaposes elements reminiscent of historical Dubai with modern features aimed at contemporary living. This duality is evident in the façade, which combines traditional Mashrabiya screens to enhance privacy and light penetration with expansive glass openings that foster a connection between interior and exterior spaces. The design is further enhanced by strategic night illumination, which highlights key architectural features and creates a compelling visual presence.

### Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a central theme of the design, evidenced by the incorporation of solar panels and a green roof system that supports biodiversity and stormwater management. The inclusion of a dual-function wind tower, or Barjeel, enhances natural ventilation, bridging traditional and modern architectural practices. Additionally, the implementation of a hydro-power system harnesses water flow on-site to supplement energy needs, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship.

### Material Selection
The chosen materials reflect both aesthetic values and sustainable practices, ensuring durability and energy efficiency. Concrete blockwork provides structural strength, while large glass surfaces maximize light entry. Wood cladding introduces warmth and contrasts with the contemporary finishes. Marble and stone are used to evoke a sense of luxury, while specialized green roofing materials support plant growth and improve insulation properties. The hydro-power turbine components are engineered for efficiency and durability, contributing to the building's overall energy strategy.

### Layout and Functionality
The layout is designed to accommodate diverse living arrangements, enhancing both family life and social interactions. The basement focuses on utility and accessibility, with gardens integrated into the space. The ground floor features expansive open areas that connect to outdoor terraces, while the first floor prioritizes privacy through the careful placement of bedrooms and personal balconies. The integration of radiant floor heating and cooling systems enhances thermal comfort, further contributing to the building's energy efficiency.

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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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