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Textile Membrane Dome with Grey Water Recycling and Local Flora Integration

Authors:
Federico Giacomarra, Alessandro Angelelli, Lubomir Iliev
Textile Membrane Dome with Grey Water Recycling and Local Flora Integration

Project in-detail

Utilizing a high-tech textile membrane and a grey water recycling system, the design integrates local flora and innovative thermal strategies to create a sustainable living space in a desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a high-tech textile membrane shell for improved thermal performance.
02
Utilizes super adobe construction for sustainable and resilient design.
03
Features a shaded loggia to optimize natural ventilation.
04
Integrates a grey water recycling system for irrigation of local plants.
05
Attracts local wildlife, such as Arabian Oryx, through ecological landscaping.

The Tent-d(h)ome project uses a mix of traditional design and modern technology to create a sustainable living space. Located in an arid landscape, it focuses on flexibility and comfort. The design draws inspiration from nomadic lifestyles and tent construction, with the aim of creating a unique and functional setting that connects with its surroundings.

Concept and Structure

The design features a domed shape that optimizes thermal mass and radiant cooling. By combining super adobe technology with a high-tech textile membrane shell, temperature regulation is achieved without relying heavily on conventional energy sources. This system promotes occupant comfort even in extreme climate conditions while making efficient use of natural thermal properties.

Materiality and Assembly

The building consists of a few essential components, making it easy to assemble and transport. Key elements include an all-in-one textile along with connected sandbags, which form the main structure. Tension cables are added to withstand wind forces, while built-in photovoltaic elements ensure energy self-sufficiency. These materials work together effectively to create a functional and durable system that can adapt to various environments.

Interior Design and Space Planning

Inside, the layout is designed to provide shelter while also allowing views of the landscape. Openings are placed carefully to create filtered glimpses and allow natural light into the living spaces. A shaded loggia extends the interior outdoors, encouraging natural air flow and creating a smooth transition between inside and outside. This arrangement enhances the living experience and makes the environment feel inviting.

Ecological Integration

The Tent-d(h)ome incorporates advanced water management solutions, including a grey water recycling system that supports local plant growth. This approach not only beautifies the immediate area but also attracts local wildlife, such as the Arabian Oryx. By considering ecological elements in its design, the project reinforces a vision of sustainable living that works in harmony with its surroundings.

The loggia, defined by its play of shade and light, invites residents to engage with the natural beauty of the environment, enriching the overall experience of living within this thoughtfully designed space.

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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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