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Thermal Mass and Clay Bricks Enhance Flexibility in Multigenerational Living

Author:
Hamed Elkholy
Thermal Mass and Clay Bricks Enhance Flexibility in Multigenerational Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing local clay bricks and a flexible design, the residence evolves from a compact villa for newlyweds to a multigenerational home, accommodating shifting family dynamics while promoting communal and private spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local clay bricks to enhance thermal mass and reduce energy consumption.
02
Incorporates vertical expansion to accommodate growing family dynamics without increasing land footprint.
03
Features communal outdoor areas designed to foster family interaction while ensuring privacy.
04
Employs cross-ventilation techniques through strategically placed windows for improved natural airflow.
05
Adapts traditional Arabian architectural elements for modern functionality in a multigenerational context.

## Overview
The project focuses on the evolution of residential spaces in response to changing family dynamics, situated in a context that respects local climatic conditions and cultural practices. It features a three-stage design framework, accommodating the life cycle of families from newlyweds to established households. The architecture draws inspiration from traditional Arabian houses, emphasizing communal living while maintaining privacy and functionality.

## Spatial Configuration
The design adapts to the increasing spatial needs of families over time. The first stage, intended for newlywed couples, consists of a small villa that features clearly defined functional zones, with communal areas on the ground floor and private sleeping quarters above. Outdoor amenities, including gardens and a pool, promote engagement with the environment. The material choices, such as clay bricks, tempered glass, and shaded structures, enhance the dwelling's thermal comfort.

As families grow, the design accommodates expansion through the addition of vertical living space, allowing for further rooms while preserving garden areas. The layout can be reconfigured to ensure privacy for family members, supported by cross-ventilation strategies that facilitate air circulation in hot climates. In the final stage, the original structure evolves into independent family apartments for married children, providing private living spaces while fostering shared community amenities.

## Material Selection and Sustainability
The project prioritizes local and sustainable materials, enhancing energy efficiency and minimizing environmental impact. Clay bricks function as effective insulators, while concrete provides structural durability. Tempered glass allows for natural light, reducing dependence on artificial lighting, and terracotta tiles contribute to thermal regulation in roofing. Wooden beams add both aesthetic value and structural integrity, treated with eco-friendly finishes.

In addition to thoughtful material selection, the innovative design includes features like cross-ventilation systems and shaded gardens, which reduce heat gain and improve indoor air quality. The multi-level configuration helps maximize land use in urban settings, balancing family privacy with communal areas, thus reflecting a commitment to sustainable living and flexibility in residential architecture.

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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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