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Sustainable Living Through Modular Design and Kingspan Materials in An Arid Landscape

Author:
Rame Schelhaas Hruska
Sustainable Living Through Modular Design and Kingspan Materials in An Arid Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with Kingspan materials and optimized for off-grid living, this microhome effectively integrates modular design within the challenging arid conditions of the Texas desert.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Kingspan Quadcore insulated panels for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Incorporates a rainwater collection system tailored for desert conditions.
03
Features a flexible interior layout with a multifunctional wall bed design.
04
Constructed off-site to minimize environmental impact during installation.
05
Designed to leverage natural light through extensive glazing for energy efficiency.

The CUBO microhome project offers a compact and practical approach to modern living. Situated in the Chihuahuan Desert near Terlingua, Texas, this architectural design exemplifies the principles of efficiency, sustainability, and adaptability. The structure takes the form of a cubic volume, which serves not only as a physical representation of minimalism but also enhances the interaction between the interior and its natural surroundings.

The primary function of CUBO is to provide a comfortable living space that caters to diverse lifestyle needs while minimizing environmental impact. The interior layout incorporates multifunctional areas, including designated spaces for sleeping, cooking, and communal living, allowing for maximum usability within a limited square footage. Large glazing panels promote natural light and create seamless transitions between the indoor and outdoor environments, fostering a strong connection with the landscape.

Innovative Design Approaches

CUBO distinguishes itself through its focus on sustainability and modular construction methods. The project integrates a comprehensive off-grid system, comprising solar panels for energy generation, a rainwater collection system, and efficient insulation materials. This design reduces dependency on traditional utility services and promotes resilience to the harsh desert climate.

The structural integrity of CUBO is enhanced through the use of high-performance materials. Kingspan Quadcore insulated wall panels provide excellent thermal performance, while Kingspan Slimline tanks facilitate effective water management. The incorporation of TROLDTEKT ceiling tiles addresses acoustic concerns while contributing to the aesthetic qualities of the interior spaces. R-9 spray foam insulation furthers energy efficiency, ensuring the microhome remains comfortable year-round.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

The floor plan of CUBO is carefully considered to incorporate flexibility into everyday living. The sleeping area can transition into a multifunctional space through a wall bed, allowing residents to customize the environment according to their daily routines. There are designated zones for cooking, relaxing, and working, ensuring that all essential functions are accommodated without the clutter typical of conventional design.

Storage solutions are strategically placed to maintain organization within the compact interior, making effective use of available space. The architectural layout not only provides practical solutions to spatial limitations but also allows for a high degree of personal autonomy and adaptability for its residents.

For a deeper understanding of the CUBO microhome project, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. The insights derived from its architectural design showcase an advanced approach to sustainable living that meets contemporary needs.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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