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Terracotta Facades and Natural Stone Integration in Sustainable Residential Design

Terracotta Facades and Natural Stone Integration in Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Integrating terracotta facades and natural stone within its structure, this residential design emphasizes sustainability through passive techniques and communal living spaces tailored for family engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates locally sourced terracotta for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Features natural stone accents that blend with the surrounding landscape.
03
Employs greywater recycling systems to promote water efficiency.
04
Incorporates cross-ventilation techniques to optimize indoor air quality.
05
Design includes versatile communal areas that support family interactions.

### Overview

Located in the United Arab Emirates, Habitat Emirati responds to the region’s socio-cultural context by merging traditional Emirati design principles with contemporary architectural practices. This residential project aims to elevate the standard of living for homeowners while reflecting the evolving needs of Emirati families. It emphasizes community, sustainability, and family life, addressing the dynamic urban environment of Abu Dhabi.

### Spatial Strategy and Functionality

The architectural form features a combination of fluid geometries and angular shapes that engage with the surrounding landscape. This design incorporates traditional arches alongside modern minimalist silhouettes, creating a harmonious visual experience. Interior spaces are thoughtfully crafted to encourage community interaction, with a focus on communal areas alongside private family settings. This layout seeks to foster a sense of belonging and support networks among residents, aligning with the cultural values of the Emirati community.

### Sustainable Design Initiatives

Habitat Emirati emphasizes sustainability through several innovative strategies. Passive design techniques prioritize cross-ventilation to enhance thermal comfort and reduce dependence on mechanical systems. The integration of solar panels and advanced insulation contributes to energy efficiency, while rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems promote responsible water management. The use of local materials such as terracotta, natural stone, and concrete not only supports regional economies but also optimizes the building's thermal performance in the UAE's climate.

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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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