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Utilizing Terracotta Panels and Natural Ventilation for Sustainable Family Living in a Desert Environment

Author:
Syed Tanveer Hussain
Utilizing Terracotta Panels and Natural Ventilation for Sustainable Family Living in a Desert Environment

Project in-detail

With a façade inspired by the U.A.E. National Flower and constructed from insulated concrete blocks, this residence integrates natural ventilation and landscaped gardens to create a sustainable living environment for families in a desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Façade design incorporates motifs from the U.A.E.
02
National Flower to enhance cultural relevance.
03
Large gardens feature shade trees and ponds, promoting natural cooling and enhancing livability.
04
Strategic window placement ensures privacy while maximizing natural light and views of landscaped areas.
05
Insulated concrete blocks are used to improve thermal regulation, reducing energy consumption.

### Overview
The Tribulus Omanense House, located in the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.), represents a modern architectural initiative that integrates cultural elements and sustainability within a contemporary living framework. The design intricately references the geographical outline of the U.A.E., signifying a connection to national identity while harmonizing traditional architectural practices with modern necessities.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The project employs a selection of materials aimed at enhancing both aesthetic appeal and functional performance. Structural integrity is achieved using a combination of concrete blocks, including standard and insulated varieties, which ensure thermal regulation. Durable ceramic tiles are utilized for flooring, while reflective paints reduce heat absorption, contributing to indoor comfort in the region's hot climate. Additional features such as steel reinforcements and extensive glass and aluminum façades optimize natural light and provide structural support. Shading devices, including horizontal louvers and puch windows, enhance air circulation and mitigate heat exposure.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience
The internal layout of the house prioritizes cross ventilation and sustainable living practices. Large garden areas with shade trees and ponds facilitate airflow, aiding in temperature regulation. The design accommodates 4 to 6 residents and features interconnected living zones, including a spacious living area, dining room, and multiple bedrooms. Open passages are incorporated to promote movement and interaction while respecting traditional cultural values. Furthermore, the façade design draws inspiration from the U.A.E. National Flower, incorporating nature-themed motifs that enhance both aesthetic and ecological considerations. The careful placement of windows and the inclusion of shaded outdoor spaces ensure privacy while fostering community engagement within the family setting.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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