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Perforated Stone Screens and Natural Ventilation in a Modern Dubai Residence

Authors:
Fred Manzi Karasira, Sylvie Dufitimana, Anibal Marie Di Francia Niyitanga
Perforated Stone Screens and Natural Ventilation in a Modern Dubai Residence

Project in-detail

With its visually captivating perforated stone screens and emphasis on natural ventilation, the residence offers a fresh approach to sustainable living in Dubai, seamlessly integrating private and communal spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
The residence incorporates a unique perforated stone screen design that enhances natural light while ensuring privacy.
02
The structure utilizes solar panels for energy efficiency, minimizing its ecological footprint.
03
Adaptability is a key feature, allowing for future modifications to meet changing resident needs.
04
The integration of natural ventilation systems promotes a comfortable indoor climate without reliance on traditional cooling methods.
05
Communal and private spaces are seamlessly blended, fostering a sense of community among residents.

## Project Overview

Located in the dynamic urban environment of Dubai, the Living House redefines traditional residential architecture through a focus on sustainability, adaptability, and contemporary functionality. The design aims to create flexible living spaces that foster community engagement while respecting individual privacy, contributing to a holistic approach to modern living.

## Spatial Strategy

The layout of the Living House promotes interaction among residents, combining communal areas with private spaces to ensure a balanced living experience. Key design features include an open-plan structure that maximizes natural light and ventilation, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life within the home. The integration of shared common areas allows for social connectivity, while designated personal zones offer necessary seclusion.

### Integration of Natural Elements

A distinctive aspect of the design is its commitment to blending natural landscapes with the built environment. Indoor gardens and strategically positioned trees are incorporated to bolster biodiversity and promote a sense of well-being among residents. Additionally, innovative "breathing screens" facilitate natural ventilation while serving as aesthetic enhancements, furthering the connection to nature.

## Material Efficiency and Sustainability

The choice of materials reflects a commitment to ecological responsibility and durability. Exposed stone finishes and masonry walls utilize local resources, thereby minimizing the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Roofs with trowel finishes and integrative solar panels promote energy efficiency and structural resilience. Furthermore, natural ventilation systems are employed to reduce reliance on mechanical climate control, enhancing the home's sustainability profile.

The Living House exemplifies a progressive approach to residential architecture, addressing both current living needs and future adaptability. Features such as multi-functional spaces and potential for expansion ensure that the design remains relevant as homeowner requirements evolve.

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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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