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Thermal Insulation and Palm Wood Integration in Energy-Efficient Desert Residence

Authors:
Rosario Luca Palumbo, Daniele Pullara, Valentina D'anna
Thermal Insulation and Palm Wood Integration in Energy-Efficient Desert Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating thermal insulation and palm wood, this energy-efficient residence adapts to its desert surroundings while providing a comfortable living space for its occupants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates thermal insulation materials specifically designed for extreme desert climates.
02
Employs both solar panels and thermal collectors for comprehensive energy savings.
03
Utilizes palm wood for its aesthetic appeal and environmental sustainability.
04
Features an internal patio system that enhances natural ventilation throughout the home.
05
Incorporates open-plan spaces that allow for versatile use and adaptability over time.

## Architectural Report: The House of the Future

### Overview
Located in a desert landscape that presents unique climatic challenges, the House of the Future is designed with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. The project addresses the immediate needs of occupants while responding to environmental considerations through an innovative design that incorporates smart material choices and spatial organization.

### Spatial Strategy
The design emphasizes functionality and adaptability, featuring distinct zoning to separate private and communal areas. The ground floor includes an entry, living and dining spaces, kitchens, utility rooms, and a majlis, with the integration of internal patios to enhance natural lighting and facilitate ventilation. The first floor is dedicated to private quarters, including bedrooms and bathrooms, benefiting from elevated views and maintaining a connection to communal spaces below.

### Material Considerations
The selected materials are vital for both aesthetic and environmental objectives. Concrete provides structural integrity and energy-efficient thermal properties, while a steel frame enhances durability and design flexibility. Thermo-insulating plaster minimizes heat transfer, contributing to overall energy efficiency. Natural elements, such as palm wood, introduce warmth, contrasting with modern materials. Gravel is utilized in landscaped areas for efficient drainage, suited to the desert environment. Additionally, solar panels and thermal collectors underscore a commitment to renewable energy, further supporting the sustainability ethos of the design.

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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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