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Timber-Clad Residence with Double-Curved Roof and Landscaped Gathering Spaces

Timber-Clad Residence with Double-Curved Roof and Landscaped Gathering Spaces
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A double-curved roof structure adorned with timber cladding seamlessly integrates with landscaped gathering spaces, offering an environmentally responsive residence that fosters family interaction and cultural connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The roof's double-curved design enhances natural ventilation throughout the residence.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance while maintaining a traditional look.
04
A dedicated Majlis space highlights cultural hospitality within a modern layout.
05
Landscaping integrates seamlessly with living areas, promoting outdoor engagement.

### Project Overview

Located in the heart of the Emirates, this project draws on the essence of Emirati culture while incorporating modern design elements. The intent is to create a living environment that reflects traditional lifestyles alongside contemporary functionality and aesthetics, fostering an appreciation for cultural heritage in a family-oriented space.

### Materiality and Structural Form

The selection of materials is crucial in conveying the project's cultural identity. Concrete provides the necessary structural integrity and durability, while glass elements enhance transparency and create connections between indoor and outdoor spaces, facilitating natural light influx. Timber features, such as pergolas, introduce warmth and texture, and stone finishes serve as a modern interpretation of traditional Emirati cladding.

The architectural form is characterized by a monolithic silhouette, topped with a distinctive double-curved roof that references regional building traditions. The spatial layout comprises expansive living and dining areas with high ceilings to promote openness, while the organization of spaces encourages family interaction and privacy within the different functional zones of the home.

### Outdoor Integration and Circulation

The design emphasizes outdoor connectivity through various landscaped gardens, terraces, and sitting areas. Covered car parking is incorporated efficiently within the aesthetic framework, while strategically positioned gardens improve air quality and create peaceful retreats. The layout features distinct yet interconnected volumes that enhance circulation, with a double-height living room serving as a central gathering space and views into landscaped areas.

Privacy considerations are thoughtfully addressed by separating service areas from communal spaces, ensuring a smooth transition between private and social zones. Flexible room configurations allow for adaptability, with options accommodating four to six bedrooms to meet the evolving needs of families.

### Sustainability Considerations

The residence incorporates sustainable practices through the use of energy-efficient materials and passive design strategies aimed at optimizing natural light and air circulation. The geometry of the roof is designed to capture cooling breezes while minimizing heat gain in warmer months. Additionally, the landscaping elements contribute to temperature moderation, enhancing the microclimate surrounding the home.

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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

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