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Textured Concrete and Porcelain Integration in a Contemporary Dubai Residence

Author:
Ahmed Aljaffar
Textured Concrete and Porcelain Integration in a Contemporary Dubai Residence

Project in-detail

Integrating textured concrete with porcelain tiles, the design offers a modern interpretation of traditional Emirati living, focused on sustainability and open communal spaces for family interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a rear garden as an extension of living spaces.
02
Utilizes a solar power system to enhance energy efficiency.
03
Employs a blend of textured concrete and porcelain tiles for durability.
04
Features large windows for natural light and outdoor connection.
05
Prioritizes open-plan layouts for family interaction and privacy.

## Project Overview

The residential structure is situated in an urban environment that reflects contemporary architectural trends. It is designed to meet the needs of Emirati families while integrating modern aesthetics with local cultural elements. The intent is to create a functional living environment that emphasizes openness and connectivity, facilitating family interactions within a thoughtfully arranged space.

## Spatial Configuration and Connectivity

The layout prioritizes spaciousness and natural light, enhancing the overall residential experience. An open environment encourages socialization, while private quarters are strategically located on the upper levels to ensure tranquillity and privacy. Thoughtfully placed staircases and corridors enhance vertical and horizontal connectivity, facilitating ease of movement throughout the dwelling.

Outdoor integration is a significant design feature, with a rear garden that reflects traditional Emirati landscaping. This space serves dual purposes, functioning as a leisure area and acting as a buffer to the surrounding environment, thus promoting a sense of peace within the urban context.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

The project's material palette is carefully chosen to support both aesthetic and functional requirements. A combination of concrete, aluminum, glass, and natural finishes ensures durability and visual coherence. Notable materials include textured concrete for exterior cladding, porcelain tiles for flooring, and solid wood for interior doors, all contributing to a cohesive design language.

Sustainability is a key consideration, as evidenced by the incorporation of a solar power system, which significantly reduces the building’s environmental footprint. The emphasis on energy-efficient materials and construction methods aligns with contemporary sustainability practices, setting a standard for future residential developments.

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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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