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3D Printed Clay Bricks and Wind Catchers Shaping Sustainable Living in Desert Environments

Author:
Merhi El Jebbeh
3D Printed Clay Bricks and Wind Catchers Shaping Sustainable Living in Desert Environments

Project in-detail

Employing 3D printed clay bricks and integrated wind catchers, the residence optimizes natural ventilation and thermal efficiency while creating adaptable living spaces suited for sustainable family life in a desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printed clay bricks for enhanced thermal mass and efficient material use.
02
Incorporates wind catchers for passive cooling, optimizing indoor comfort.
03
Modular design allows for flexible configurations of living spaces.
04
Integrates permeable facade elements to manage temperature and light.
05
Features reflective water pools that contribute to environmental cooling and aesthetics.

## House of the Future: Architectural Analysis Report

### Overview

Located in the Al Fajlah neighborhood of the UAE, the House of the Future exemplifies a modern residential design that prioritizes sustainability, community integration, and functional living. The project responds to the evolving needs of contemporary society while respecting local architectural traditions. Its strategic approach addresses both cultural significance and the climatic conditions of the region, ensuring the design is relevant and contextually sensitive.

### Spatial Fluidity and Adaptability

**Porosity** is a key concept in this residence, achieved through interconnected open spaces that facilitate movement and social interaction among inhabitants. The non-linear arrangement promotes visual connections across various rooms, enhancing communal experiences while preserving privacy when necessary.

**Modularity** further enhances this spatial strategy, allowing for flexibility in how different areas can be utilized. By incorporating modular components, the design accommodates varying family dynamics and activities throughout the day, reinforcing the residence's adaptability to modern living.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project's material palette has been carefully curated to support both performance and aesthetic integrity. **Concrete** serves as the main structural element, known for its durability. The incorporation of **3D printed clay brick** not only reflects innovation but also aligns with local production practices, providing thermal mass for enhanced energy performance.

**Glass** is extensively used to facilitate natural light infiltration, fostering a connection with the outdoor environment. Additionally, **permeable facade elements** contribute to temperature regulation, enhancing the building's overall energy efficiency. Renewable energy features such as solar panels and passive cooling systems, including wind catchers, further emphasize a commitment to sustainable design practices.

### Architectural Features

The **facade design** features organic curves and modular openings that blend traditional Arabic aesthetics with contemporary architecture, creating a visual transition from the exterior's dynamic public space to the tranquility of private interiors.

Central courtyards and terraces introduce ample natural light while promoting adequate ventilation, with wind catchers embedded in the rooftop design to enhance thermal comfort. Reflective water features within the courtyards not only serve a cooling function but also add an element of serenity to the overall design.

This residence illustrates a nuanced approach to architecture, balancing modern functionality with cultural heritage, while fostering community engagement through shared spaces. The integration of these elements results in a harmonious living environment that meets the needs of its residents while maintaining respect for its cultural context.

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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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