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Translucent Etfe Dome over Sustainable Vertical Gardens in Desert Habitat

Authors:
Alireza Rezaei, Abdollah Enferadi, Fateme Kameli, Raha Bahtooei
Translucent Etfe Dome over Sustainable Vertical Gardens in Desert Habitat

Project in-detail

A transparent ETFE dome integrates passive ventilation and vertical gardens to create a sustainable habitat tailored for arid desert conditions, serving as a refuge for both people and local ecology.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent ETFE structure allows for optimal daylight while minimizing heat gain.
02
Vertical gardens capitalize on sustainable agricultural practices within the habitat.
03
The design incorporates traditional Qanat-inspired water management systems.
04
Natural ventilation is achieved through strategically placed windcatchers.
05
Reinforced concrete and fiberglass materials enhance structural durability and efficiency.

### Overview

Located in a desert environment, the design intends to respond to the challenges of climate change and enhance ecological sustainability. Inspired by ancient water management systems, particularly Qanats, the proposal integrates modern engineering with traditional practices. The objective is to create a self-sustaining habitat that aligns human needs with natural ecosystems, addressing the anticipated climate realities between 2030 and 2050.

### Spatial Configuration and Functionality

The architectural design features a large, semi-transparent dome that allows for abundant natural light while protecting inhabitants from extreme weather conditions. The interior space is organized into distinct layers, including farming gardens, circulation pathways, and habitable zones, which optimize functionality. Thermal mass and passive ventilation systems are incorporated to ensure comfortable living conditions while reducing dependence on mechanical systems.

### materials and Innovative Technologies

The structure employs a range of materials to enhance durability and sustainability. Reinforced concrete provides essential structural support, while fiberglass complements traditional glass to improve strength and weight efficiency. The incorporation of sustainable timber in interior spaces contributes to a warmer aesthetic. Additionally, solar energy harnessed through strategically placed solar panels, alongside natural ventilation facilitated by windcatchers, supports the habitat's operational efficiency and overall sustainability. Water management systems inspired by Qanats ensure efficient irrigation and support vertical gardens, further integrating the ecosystem within 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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