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Thermoblock Insulation and Indoor Gardens Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Contemporary Residential Design

Author:
Emad Labib Eskaros Abdelmasih
Thermoblock Insulation and Indoor Gardens Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Contemporary Residential Design

Project in-detail

Incorporating Thermoblock insulation and expansive indoor gardens, this residence optimizes energy efficiency while maintaining cultural relevance through a modern interpretation of traditional design elements for a family-oriented living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Thermoblock insulation for enhanced energy efficiency.
02
Features an indoor garden integrated into the living space for improved air quality.
03
Incorporates solar panels seamlessly into the sloped roof design.
04
Employs transparent rolling shutters for adaptive light control and privacy.
05
Includes a Majlis area reflecting cultural traditions within a modern context.

### Overview

The Future House is located in the United Arab Emirates, where it seeks to balance modern architectural sensibilities with traditional elements. The design aims to harmoniously integrate sustainability, efficiency, and advanced materials while respecting the cultural heritage of the region. This project embodies a narrative that connects historical influences with contemporary needs and technologies.

### Design Philosophy: Interweaving Tradition and Modernity

The design philosophy reflects a commitment to fusing historical architectural values with modern practices. By incorporating traditional elements alongside contemporary architectural features, the residence articulates a narrative that spans different time periods. This hybrid approach is fundamental to the project’s identity, distinguishing it from more conventional designs by illustrating how tradition can coexist alongside innovation.

### Materiality and Environmental Response

The material palette includes Thermoblock for insulation, solar panels for energy efficiency, transparent rolling shutters for light management, and glass for visual connectivity with the surroundings. The use of Thermoblock not only enhances energy performance due to its superior insulation properties but also fulfills aesthetic requirements. Solar panels are strategically positioned to optimize energy capture, while rolling shutters and extensive glazing promote both functionality and visual harmony. Collectively, these materials support the project's commitment to sustainability while enhancing its architectural appeal.

### Spatial Organization: Enhancing Privacy and Functionality

The spatial layout effectively separates private and public areas, stressing the cultural importance of privacy in Emirati homes. A central indoor garden enhances air quality and provides a serene retreat. Multi-functional spaces, such as the Majlis and family living areas, facilitate social interaction, aligning with cultural norms. The circulation within the house is designed for easy navigation and accessibility, further contributing to its livability.

Each design element, from the innovative sloped roof to the expansive glass surfaces, not only emphasizes aesthetic considerations but also addresses practical challenges related to climate and energy use. The roof's angle is optimized for solar exposure, while the design as a whole engages meaningfully with its environment, ensuring that both functionality and beauty are prioritized throughout.

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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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