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Breeze Block Facades and Mud Brick Design in a Community-Centric Residential Complex

Author:
Melad Abdulqader Ali Alfulaij
Breeze Block Facades and Mud Brick Design in a Community-Centric Residential Complex

Project in-detail

Utilizing breeze blocks and mud brick, the design fosters a community-centric environment with integrated courtyards, creating a functional residential space that promotes social interaction among residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Facades utilize traditional breeze blocks for enhanced ventilation and privacy.
02
Mud brick construction connects the design to local climatic conditions and materials.
03
Integrated courtyards promote community engagement and social interaction among residents.
04
The layout blurs boundaries between private and public spaces for a cohesive living experience.
05
Sustainable techniques reduce reliance on mechanical cooling, enhancing energy efficiency.
The architectural project "Connected Grounds" presents an innovative residential design that addresses the distinct social and climatic needs of inhabitants in the United Arab Emirates. By redefining traditional notions of privacy and community interaction, this project showcases a modern interpretation of Emirati living spaces while utilizing local materials.

The design incorporates a series of interconnected structures, each featuring individual courtyards and communal spaces that facilitate social engagement among residents. This layout encourages a sense of belonging and promotes neighborly relationships, central themes in Emirati culture. The architectural design embraces locally sourced materials, specifically breeze blocks, mud, and brick, to create a sustainable and contextually relevant environment.

Unique Community-Centric Design
What sets "Connected Grounds" apart from typical residential developments is its emphasis on a community-centric approach. The design integrates multiple courtyards that serve as shared spaces, allowing residents to interact and engage with one another. This layout deviates from conventional housing formats by blurring the lines between private and public areas. The use of breeze blocks in the façade design not only contributes to aesthetic quality but also enhances ventilation and reduces heat gain, achieved through strategic positioning and perforation patterns.

Adaptive Climate Response
Incorporating a deep understanding of the harsh desert climate, the project addresses thermal comfort and energy efficiency. The breezy nature of the breeze blocks paired with shaded communal courtyards creates a cooler microclimate within the residential complex, significantly mitigating reliance on mechanical cooling solutions. Furthermore, the use of traditional materials like mud and brick not only enhances the building's sustainability but also connects residents to their cultural heritage, fostering an enduring respect for local architectural practices.

For a comprehensive understanding of "Connected Grounds," readers are encouraged to explore the various architectural plans, sections, and designs that detail the project's unique aspects and innovative ideas. These elements provide deeper insights into how this architectural endeavor responds to both environmental challenges and community needs in the context of modern UAE living.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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