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Utilizing Datecrete and Rammed Earth for Sustainable Living in Desert Environments

Authors:
Daniela Barba Martin, Maria Emilia Casar Ruiz, Andrea Valtierra PeÑa
Utilizing Datecrete and Rammed Earth for Sustainable Living in Desert Environments

Project in-detail

Constructed from datecrete and rammed earth, this residence integrates traditional Emirati design with modern sustainability principles, achieving a balance of environmental sensitivity and family-oriented living in a desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using datecrete, incorporating local agricultural byproducts for reduced environmental impact.
02
Rammed earth walls provide superior thermal mass, regulating indoor temperatures efficiently.
03
Traditional Emirati arches and lattice patterns enhance cultural identity while facilitating airflow.
04
Natural ventilation strategies optimize indoor air quality without reliance on mechanical systems.
05
Design integrates seamlessly with the arid landscape, utilizing local materials to minimize ecological footprint.
The DUNE - House of the Future project is a contemporary residential design situated in the arid landscape of the Emirati region. This architectural endeavor integrates traditional design elements with modern sustainability practices, aiming to create a dwelling that reflects cultural heritage while addressing environmental challenges. The design promotes a harmonious interaction between the indoor environment and its desert surroundings, emphasizing energy efficiency and comfort.

This project functions primarily as a family residence, facilitating a community-oriented lifestyle through its spatial organization. The design incorporates open living spaces that allow for social interaction, while also providing private areas for individual family members. The architecture effectively responds to climatic conditions, utilizing passive cooling strategies and thermal mass to maintain a comfortable indoor environment.

Materiality plays a pivotal role in the DUNE house, with a strong emphasis on sustainable practices. The primary building materials include rammed earth, which contributes to thermal regulation; sandstone, which blends with the local landscape; datecrete, an innovative concrete made from date seeds; palm veneer, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional wood; and selectively used glass and steel. This careful selection not only enhances the structure's architectural integrity but also reflects a commitment to minimizing environmental impact through localized sourcing.

The uniqueness of the DUNE house lies in its innovative approach to traditional architectural elements. By incorporating arches and lattice patterns, the design nods to Emirati architectural vernacular, establishing a sense of place without compromising modern design aesthetics. The use of datecrete exemplifies an inventive application of regional resources, marking a departure from conventional concrete practices. This innovative material significantly reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional construction while celebrating local culture.

In addition to its material and aesthetic qualities, the DUNE house employs strategic design measures to optimize daylight and ventilation. North- and south-facing windows facilitate cross-ventilation and reduce the reliance on artificial lighting, thereby enhancing energy efficiency. The thick rammed earth walls provide necessary insulation against heat, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the site’s climatic needs.

For those interested in exploring the detailed aspects of the DUNE - House of the Future project, including architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas, further investigation into this architectural endeavor is encouraged. Understanding the meticulous consideration of materiality, spatial organization, and cultural integration can provide valuable insights into the potential of sustainable architecture in the region.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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