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Vertical Gardens and Carbon Fiber Integration in a Sustainable Family Home

Authors:
Nazim BaŞtuĞ, Miray Ferzan Aydin KarataŞ, Seray ÖztÜrk YaŞar
Vertical Gardens and Carbon Fiber Integration in a Sustainable Family Home

Project in-detail

Integrating carbon fiber and vertical gardens, this sustainable home emphasizes environmental sensitivity while accommodating modern family living needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates vertical gardens into the modular wall system for enhanced sustainability.
02
Utilizes carbon fiber for lightweight structural integrity and flexibility.
03
Features earth tubes for passive geothermal cooling, minimizing energy use.
04
Employs a bent A-frame design to maximize interior space and natural light.
05
Facilitates adaptable living zones, allowing custom configurations for family needs.
The architectural project "The Home" is designed to function as a sustainable residential solution suited to the climate and cultural context of the Emirates. This project emphasizes efficiency, modularity, and community engagement while maximizing the use of local materials and traditional design principles. The architecture focuses on creating a harmonious living environment that prioritizes both private and communal spaces.

Modular elements define the architectural structure, with distinct zones established for services and living areas. The integration of the modular wall allows for customizable configurations, enabling residents to adapt their living spaces to their needs. The design supports energy efficiency through the implementation of earth tubes for geothermal cooling and dedicated panels for heating and plumbing. Additionally, the canopy serves a dual function as a protective element while facilitating solar energy capture and humidity management.

Sustainable Design Approaches

The project distinguishes itself with several unique design approaches that address the needs of modern living while maintaining respect for cultural traditions. The two-zone principle creates a separation between external communal areas and private family spaces, allowing for a balance between interaction and privacy. The modular wall serves not only as a structural component but also as an opportunity for vertical gardening, further enhancing the project's sustainability profile.

The use of lightweight carbon fiber in the modular wall panels reduces the overall structural load while providing a durable framework for the building. This emphasis on material efficiency and innovation reflects an understanding of contemporary environmental challenges. The inclusion of earth tubes and condensation trays highlights a focus on climate responsiveness, using local climatic conditions to support passive cooling techniques.

Architectural Integration and Community Focus

The design promotes community interaction through thoughtfully planned shared spaces while considering the need for privacy, which is vital in Emirati culture. This architectural integration fosters a sense of belonging, allowing residents to connect with each other and the surrounding environment. The project showcases how modern architectural ideas can align with cultural values, leading to a greater sense of identity for the inhabitants.

The Home invites exploration of its architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs to gain a comprehensive understanding of the innovative strategies employed throughout the project. For those interested in sustainable architecture, this project stands as a practical example of how design can effectively respond to cultural and environmental contexts. Reviewing the project presentation offers valuable insights into the architectural solutions developed to address the complexities of modern living in a traditional setting.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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