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Terrarium-Inspired Residence Utilizing Mycelium Panels and Electrochromic Glass in a Climate-Responsive Design

Author:
Francisco javier Camargo amaya
Terrarium-Inspired Residence Utilizing Mycelium Panels and Electrochromic Glass in a Climate-Responsive Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing mycelium panels and electrochromic glass, this residence integrates a central terrarium that enhances indoor biodiversity while offering a flexible living space designed for family connectivity in a sustainable environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes mycelium panels for structural and insulation purposes.
02
Incorporates a kinetic roof system with electrochromic glass for adaptive light control.
03
Features a central terrarium that promotes local biodiversity and enhances air quality.
04
Design includes a double facade for improved thermal performance and security.
05
Adopts a modular layout that allows for flexible interior configurations to suit varying needs.

## Overview

Located in Al Dhannah City, approximately 250 km east of Abu Dhabi, the Neo-Aslaf Home is designed to reflect both traditional Islamic culture and contemporary sustainability practices. This residence aims to provide a comfortable living environment while emphasizing a connection to the surrounding desert landscape. The project embraces a multifaceted architectural approach that prioritizes ecological preservation, adaptability, and cultural heritage.

## Environmental Strategy

### Sustainable Material Selection

The Neo-Aslaf Home employs a range of innovative materials that contribute to its sustainability objectives. Mycelium panels are utilized not only for their structural capabilities but also for their natural insulation properties, promoting energy efficiency. The integration of electrochromic glass within the kinetic roof allows for dynamic control of light and temperature, enhancing overall comfort. Additionally, liquid nano clay is applied in the central terrarium, incorporating local flora to support biodiversity. These material choices reflect a commitment to environmentally conscious design.

### Architectural Features

Key elements of the design reinforce the project's intent to merge indoor and outdoor environments. The central terrarium serves as a "green lung," bolstering indoor air quality and acting as a climatic buffer. The kinetic roof, featuring a retractable modular system, provides flexibility in managing light and ventilation. A double facade contributes to thermal regulation, promoting comfort in the region's desert climate. The floor layout further enhances connectivity while respecting the privacy of individual spaces, with communal areas on the ground floor and private quarters above designed to optimize views and ventilation.

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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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