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Sustainable Living with SIPs and Biophilic Gardens in a Desert Climate

Author:
Lingfei Liu
Sustainable Living with SIPs and Biophilic Gardens in a Desert Climate

Project in-detail

Constructed with structural insulated panels and incorporating biophilic gardens, this residence efficiently blends indoor and outdoor spaces while addressing the challenges of a desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with structural insulated panels for enhanced energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates biophilic gardens to improve air quality and connect residents with nature.
03
Features a traditional Majlis for cultural gatherings within a modern context.
04
Utilizes earth tubes for passive cooling and improved ventilation throughout the home.
05
Includes a modular design allowing for future adaptability and expansion of living spaces.

### Overview

Located in Dubai, House amongst Gardens is a two-story residential design that addresses contemporary housing needs while integrating sustainable practices. The project is designed to promote comfortable living and aligns with the city's rapid urbanization. By incorporating modern construction techniques with traditional concepts, the design emphasizes the importance of environmental harmony, functionality, and user comfort.

### Spatial Strategy

The spatial organization focuses on maximizing functionality and accessibility, creating distinct zones for both social interaction and private retreat. Open-plan living and dining areas are oriented towards adjacent gardens, providing views and fostering a connection with nature. Each residential unit features private outdoor spaces to enhance well-being. Additionally, a culturally significant Majlis serves as a transitional area, reinforcing community ties while maintaining the necessary privacy for occupants. Service areas are strategically located to ensure convenience without compromising the overall design integrity.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project employs a thoughtful selection of materials that emphasize both aesthetic appeal and sustainability. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) enhance energy efficiency, while cork wall panels improve acoustic comfort. Fiber cement panels serve as durable rain screen cladding, and recycled concrete fill is utilized in the foundation to promote resource efficiency. Rooftop photovoltaic panels and earth tubes are integrated to augment energy performance and indoor air quality, respectively. Furthermore, rainwater harvesting systems and composting toilets are included to support water conservation and reduce waste, reflecting a commitment to ecological responsibility.

The architectural form combines textured surfaces and neutral palettes with a modern geometric language, creating visual interest while allowing ample natural light throughout the interior spaces. This design flexibility, with an adaptable modular layout, permits future modifications in response to evolving needs, positioning the project as a relevant solution amid Dubai's dynamic housing landscape.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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