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Triangular Form with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Integrated Solar Design for Sustainable Living

Authors:
Chun-yang Tsai, William Chang, Kuan Yu Hou, Guan-ting Guo
Triangular Form with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Integrated Solar Design for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Employing a triangular form and cross-laminated timber panels, the design integrates solar technology to create a sustainable living environment that adapts to the challenges of arid climates.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a triangular structure to enhance natural ventilation and thermal efficiency.
02
Incorporates prefabricated living cabins that allow for modular adaptability.
03
Features a central atrium designed as a thermal buffer for climate control.
04
Integrates solar panel technology into the architectural framework for energy independence.
05
Employs charred wooden shingles for added durability and aesthetic appeal.

## Project Overview
Located in the arid conditions reminiscent of Dubai, the "Desert Phoenix" design addresses contemporary living challenges in extreme climates. Inspired by the resilience of the date palm (Phoenix dactylifera), this architectural endeavor aims to provide sustainable solutions for habitation in settings marked by harsh weather and environmental fluctuations. The project emphasizes adaptability and resource efficiency, preparing inhabitants for potential future scenarios shaped by climate change and global health crises.

## Spatial Relationships
The layout of "Desert Phoenix" prioritizes flexible living arrangements, allowing residents to modify their spaces according to personal needs while encouraging communal interaction. Open corridors and interconnected atriums foster a sense of community, enhancing resident well-being. This spatial strategy strikes a balance between private cabins and shared areas, reflecting a culturally resonant approach that merges traditional architectural elements with modern design principles.

## Material Selection
The project utilizes locally sourced and sustainable materials, ensuring environmental integration and long-term durability. Concrete forms the structural basis for both the main building and individual cabins, providing strength while minimizing maintenance needs. Wood is included to create warm, inviting interiors, enhancing the comfort of both private and communal spaces. Glass elements in the atrium and cabin facades maximize natural light and ventilation, reducing dependence on artificial cooling and promoting energy efficiency.

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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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