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Vertical Greening with Biomimetic Facade and Sustainable Materials in Urban Housing

Vertical Greening with Biomimetic Facade and Sustainable Materials in Urban Housing
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Showcasing a vertical greening system and a biomimetic facade, the design leverages native materials to create a sustainable urban residence focused on self-sufficiency and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a vertical automated farm for resident food production.
02
Employs a biomimetic facade that adapts to seasonal changes.
03
Utilizes passive cooling systems to enhance energy efficiency.
04
Incorporates native flora in the landscaping for water conservation.
05
Features flexible interior spaces that can adapt to evolving family needs.

### Overview
The Mazraea House is situated in Dubai, a city marked by rapid urbanization and a challenging desert climate. This residential project employs biophilic design principles and advanced sustainable technologies, with the intent to create a living environment that is adaptable to changing ecological conditions while promoting the well-being of its residents.

### Spatial Strategy
The design features a concept referred to as the "Biosystemic Tower," where the structure actively responds to natural elements such as soil, wind, and water. The integration of indoor and outdoor spaces fosters community interactions while emphasizing individual well-being. Vertical gardens and panoramic windows are employed to merge the interior with the surrounding environment, encouraging a connection with nature.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The architectural composition includes primary materials such as concrete for structural integrity, wood for warmth, and glass for maximizing natural light. Vertical greenery panels enhance thermal efficiency and biodiversity. Sustainable features include a vertical automated farm for resident food cultivation, rainwater harvesting systems for irrigation, and solar panels for energy generation. The design considers local sourcing of materials, minimizing transportation emissions and reinforcing a connection to the local context. Additional passive cooling systems, such as wind catchers, further reduce reliance on mechanical cooling.

### Landscape Integration
The landscape surrounding the Mazraea House is designed with drought-resistant native plants, minimizing water consumption. This thoughtful integration enhances the site's biophilic qualities, promoting relaxation and recreational opportunities within an urban environment. Key outdoor spaces are designed to support community engagement while reflecting the architectural themes of sustainability and ecological harmony.

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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

Open architecture competitions

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Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025
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