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Triangular Forms and 3D Printed Modules in Sustainable Family Living Solutions

Authors:
Maria Jose Garcia Carrillo, Dolly Alejandra Valencia Arboleda, Beatriz Davi Medola, Jonatan Ricardo Ortiz Reinoso
Triangular Forms and 3D Printed Modules in Sustainable Family Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Augmented by 3D printed triangular modules and solar protection systems, this sustainable family dwelling offers adaptable living spaces designed for modern Emirati lifestyles.
5 key facts about this project
01
3D printed triangular modules enhance construction efficiency and structural stability.
02
Integrated solar protection systems optimize interior light and reduce heat gain.
03
Hydroponic systems allow for food cultivation within the living spaces.
04
Dynamic layouts can adapt to changes in family size and needs.
05
Vertical enclosures simplify assembly and future modifications.

## Overview

Located in the United Arab Emirates, the project addresses the evolving complexities of modern Emirati living through innovative design and adaptability. Aimed at accommodating families of four to six members, it embodies a modular system that allows for flexible living arrangements. The design emphasizes structural adaptability and cultural motifs while incorporating sustainable practices to meet contemporary living demands within the context of traditional values.

### Modular Design Strategy

The project is structured into distinct modules, categorized as either Big Modules, which comprise four seed modules, or Small Modules, containing two seed modules. This geometric arrangement facilitates a variety of configurations, denoted from A to D, encouraging adaptability as demographic needs evolve. The triangular forms used in the design not only symbolize structural versatility but also resonate with elements found in Emirati heritage.

### Material Sustainability and Construction Techniques

The architectural design utilizes a combination of modern materials to optimize both sustainability and functionality. Extensive use of glass enhances natural light distribution, minimizing the need for artificial lighting. Solar protection modules are incorporated to manage heat gain while maintaining ambient illumination. Additionally, vertical enclosure modules allow for modular assembly and disassembly, supporting future adaptability.

A key aspect of construction involves 3D printing technology, which ensures precision in creating modular components. This approach contributes to operational efficiency and facilitates lightweight designs, aligning with environmentally conscious building practices.

### User-Centric Design and Environmental Integration

The residential layouts are designed for personalization, accommodating changing family dynamics. Public areas, including living rooms and majlis, foster social interaction, while private spaces ensure individual privacy. Natural ventilation and strategic building orientation optimize light entry and reduce heat retention.

Sustainable features are integrated throughout the design, including green roofs for natural insulation, hydroponic systems for soil-less agriculture, and smart glazing for responsive light control. The incorporation of gray water recycling systems further enhances water conservation efforts, critical in the UAE's arid environment.

This project effectively merges traditional Emirati architectural principles with contemporary design, advocating for a balanced and sustainable living environment.

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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
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