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Thermal Cedar Overhangs Embrace Passive Cooling In Sustainable Desert Residence

Author:
Sean William Bell
Thermal Cedar Overhangs Embrace Passive Cooling In Sustainable Desert Residence

Project in-detail

Thermal-treated cedar overhangs and reinforced concrete integrate seamlessly into the arid landscape, creating a sustainable residence that prioritizes passive cooling while accommodating both residents and guests comfortably.
5 key facts about this project
01
Thermal-treated cedar overhangs minimize solar heat gain while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
02
Reinforced concrete construction provides thermal mass for effective temperature regulation.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes structural integrity and visual connection with the landscape.
04
Native landscaping reduces water usage and integrates with the natural environment.
05
Passive cooling techniques leverage natural ventilation to maintain indoor comfort year-round.

## Project Overview

The Desert Home is situated in a desert environment and is designed to merge harmoniously with the surrounding landscape while prioritizing sustainability and minimal environmental impact. The residence integrates with the natural topography and ecological systems, reflecting a design philosophy that respects and responds to the unique challenges of arid climates. Central to the project is the intent to create a dwelling that enhances the living experience while remaining in dialogue with its environment.

## Spatial Organization and Functionality

The organization of spaces within the residence is deliberate and functional. The main living area serves as the heart of the home, incorporating the kitchen, dining, and living spaces to foster a communal atmosphere. Guest accommodations, located to the west of the main living area, provide privacy while maintaining accessibility. The design includes outdoor features, such as a pool and shaded areas, facilitated by large glass sliding doors that promote connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The floor plan is strategically zoned to optimize natural light and ventilation while catering to various functions. A lower level offers additional living and storage spaces, enhancing the home's versatility for residents and visitors alike.

## Material Considerations

The material palette emphasizes sustainability while ensuring structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Key materials include reinforced concrete for stability and thermal mass, steel beams for modern structural support, and weather-resistant thermal-treated cedar for external cladding. Expansive glass windows and doors invite natural light and unify the interior with the landscape, while textured stone pathways enhance visual continuity and stability throughout the site.

Incorporation of sustainable features further underscores the project's commitment to environmental responsibility. Passive cooling techniques and automated shading devices promote energy efficiency, while strategically placed solar panels harness renewable energy. The attentive landscaping respects local flora, ensuring the design complements rather than disrupts the existing ecosystem. This cohesive approach establishes a strong visual connection to the surrounding landscape, making the Desert Home a reflection of both its function and context.

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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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