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Wavy Rooflines and Sustainable Materials Define a Modern Desert Residence

Author:
Juhan Lee
Wavy Rooflines and Sustainable Materials Define a Modern Desert Residence

Project in-detail

The undulating rooflines crafted from sustainable materials create an engaging interplay between modernity and the natural desert landscape, offering a functional family residence that embodies ecological sensitivity and cultural relevance.
5 key facts about this project
01
Undulating roof design mimics natural dune formations for enhanced climate control.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer structural strength while reducing environmental impact.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and a unique aesthetic.
04
Large glass panels promote natural light and a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
05
Integrated solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems enhance sustainability.

**Overview**
Located in Dubai, UAE, the project titled "In the Desert" integrates contemporary architectural design with elements reflective of the region's cultural heritage. This initiative aims to create an environment that resonates with the natural desert landscape while fulfilling the functional needs of its users. The design draws inspiration from local topography and the subtleties of the desert's palette, encapsulating both aesthetic and practical considerations.

**Architectural Strategy**
The structure features a series of undulating roofs that mimic the forms of sand dunes, contributing to an engaging skyline while enhancing passive cooling and weather resistance. This form strategically guides airflow, minimizing solar heat gain. Interior spaces are arranged to encourage social interaction while distinguishing private areas. The ground floor includes communal living and dining areas, designed to support both family gatherings and community events. An open stairway connects these spaces to the first floor, which houses private quarters, ensuring a cohesive flow throughout the residence.

**Materiality and Sustainability**
A carefully curated selection of materials emphasizes both durability and environmental harmony. The façade utilizes a light-colored, textured render that reflects the local sandy tones, promoting thermal regulation. Timber elements introduce warmth to the interior spaces, while large glass panels facilitate natural light and connection to the outdoor environment. Concrete provides essential structural support, particularly in foundational elements. To align with sustainable practices, the landscape incorporates native flora like palm trees, which reduce water consumption and enhance the desert aesthetic. The inclusion of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems further underscores the commitment to minimizing environmental impact.

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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

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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Chair
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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