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Terracotta-Clad Structure With Vertical Green Elements Embracing Sustainable Living

Author:
Marco Tasso
Terracotta-Clad Structure With Vertical Green Elements Embracing Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Emphasizing local terracotta and vertical greenery, the design integrates sustainable materials and efficient spatial organization to create an adaptable residential environment in the urban landscape of Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local terracotta for thermal regulation in the desert climate.
02
Features a vertical garden system that enhances air quality and aesthetics.
03
Incorporates a photovoltaic tower for renewable energy generation.
04
Employs an open-plan layout to enhance natural light and airflow.
05
Designed with adaptable spaces to accommodate evolving family needs.

### Overview

Located in a high-density urban area of Dubai, the Desert House is an architectural project that aims to integrate contemporary design with the cultural and climatic nuances of the region. Its intent is to create a functional dwelling that reflects and respects local traditions while accommodating the needs of modern living.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The design of the Desert House features a meticulously planned spatial arrangement that delineates distinct functional zones. The ground floor includes a car park, private garden, living area, dining space, kitchen, and various private rooms, ensuring accessibility and efficient workflow. The upper floors provide additional bedrooms and amenities, complemented by terraces and a photovoltaic tower that supports energy sustainability. The inclusion of cloistered gardens and meditation zones enhances the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering tranquility.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration

The Desert House emphasizes sustainability through the careful selection of predominantly local materials, thereby minimizing environmental impact. The material palette features concrete for structural durability, terracotta tiles for thermal regulation, wood for aesthetic warmth, and large glass windows to facilitate natural light while maintaining privacy. Solar panels on the photovoltaic tower and passive design strategies optimize energy efficiency, reflecting a comprehensive approach to environmental considerations. The structure’s thermal mass and insulation techniques are tailored to address the region's harsh climate, further supporting its status as a model of responsible architecture.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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