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Sustainable Living Through Lightweight Construction Using Heblex and Natural Ventilation Techniques

Authors:
Arina Keshavarzmohammadian, Tina Safariveshnavei, Shayan Rakhshan
Sustainable Living Through Lightweight Construction Using Heblex and Natural Ventilation Techniques

Project in-detail

Constructed with Heblex for enhanced insulation and integrating traditional wind catchers for natural ventilation, this residence redefines family living in Dubai by harmonizing modern sustainability with cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with Heblex blocks for superior thermal insulation.
02
Incorporates traditional Iranian wind catchers for natural cooling.
03
Features a central sunken courtyard optimizing natural light.
04
Designed to allow flexible expansion for family growth.
05
Utilizes large glazing for expansive views and connectivity to the outdoors.

### Overview
The Dubai Sustainable Residence is situated in Dubai, designed to create an environmentally responsible residential environment for families of four to six individuals. This project integrates traditional architectural elements with contemporary design practices, emphasizing sustainability and energy efficiency. The intent is to establish a model for future developments within the region that addresses both modern living needs and ecological considerations.

### Layout and Spatial Configuration
The residence features a multi-level design that includes underground, ground, and optional expansion floors. The spatial layout promotes interaction among living spaces, facilitating fluid transitions from communal areas to private sections. Central to the design is a sunken courtyard that enhances natural light throughout the residence, contributing to a more inviting interior atmosphere. This configuration not only optimizes spatial efficiency but also supports the thermoregulation imperative in the Dubai climate.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Material selection plays an essential role in the project's construction and operation. Heblex lightweight blocks are employed for their thermal performance and ease of installation, while warm-colored wood elements foster a welcoming ambiance. The use of large glass windows maximizes views and natural light, while natural stone flooring materials ensure comfort and aesthetic coherence. The residence incorporates advanced construction techniques to minimize energy consumption, emphasizing natural ventilation and sun control strategies that align with sustainable design principles. The inclusion of adaptable features allows for potential future expansions, accommodating the evolving needs of its inhabitants.

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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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