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3D Printed Local Mud Structure Enhancing Natural Ventilation With Perforated Walls

Author:
Rana Ibrahim
3D Printed Local Mud Structure Enhancing Natural Ventilation With Perforated Walls

Project in-detail

Utilizing 3D printed local mud and innovative perforated walls, this residence achieves exceptional natural ventilation while incorporating traditional Emirati elements to create a functional and culturally resonant family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
3D printed local mud forms the primary structure, allowing for unique design flexibility.
02
Perforated walls enhance natural ventilation while providing visual interest and privacy.
03
The design incorporates a traditional Barjeel, adapting historical elements for modern comfort.
04
Courtyard water features integrate evaporative cooling, contributing to a sustainable climate strategy.
05
Interior spaces can be reconfigured with flexible partitions to accommodate evolving family needs.

## Architectural Design Analysis Report: Innovative Emirati House

### Overview
Located in the United Arab Emirates, this dwelling integrates traditional Emirati architectural principles with contemporary construction methods and sustainable technologies. The design reflects a commitment to cultural heritage while utilizing innovative materials and systems, including 3D printing, to create a versatile and functional living space.

### Spatial Strategy
The layout emphasizes openness and social interaction through the incorporation of courtyards and community spaces. An open floor plan on the ground level accommodates shared living areas, such as the kitchen and dining spaces, while private living quarters are situated on the first floor. The strategic placement of a **Barjeel**, or wind tower, facilitates natural ventilation and cooling, adapting traditional methods to enhance the contemporary living experience. Perforated wall systems are employed to regulate light and maintain privacy, crucial elements in Emirati culture.

### Material Selection
The structure employs a range of innovative materials designed for sustainability and durability. Primary components include **3D printed local mud**, which allows for creative architectural forms while minimizing waste. **Gypsum board** is utilized for interior walls, providing flexibility for future modifications. Additional elements such as **wood beams** contribute to the aesthetic warmth and structural integrity of the interiors. Integrated **cooling canals** in the walls channel outside air into living spaces, while a **courtyard fountain** serves to cool the environment through evaporation, showcasing an effective interplay of natural features and modern design strategies.

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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
The Architect's Chair
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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