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Cascading Roofs and Engineered Wood Create Seamless Connection to Nature in Sustainable Residential Design

Authors:
Moye Guo, Rong Hu, Shan Wang, Qihong Lin, Shilan Yu
Cascading Roofs and Engineered Wood Create Seamless Connection to Nature in Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Cascading roofs of engineered wood and integrated natural ventilation systems facilitate a harmonious indoor-outdoor experience in this sustainable residential development designed for modern family living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cascading roofs mimic leaf structures to enhance shading and aesthetics.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Charred wooden shingles offer enhanced weather resistance and a unique finish.
04
Rooftop gardens contribute to biodiversity and recreational space for residents.
05
Integrated natural ventilation pathways improve air quality and reduce energy consumption.
The architectural project "Under the Leaves" is a contemporary residential complex located in Dubai, designed with a focus on sustainability and integration with the natural environment. This project aims to provide a harmonious living experience through innovative design strategies that enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. It is characterized by its unique combination of indoor-outdoor living, community-centric spaces, and environmentally friendly materials.

Design Integration with Nature

A central theme of the design is the incorporation of natural elements into the living spaces. The facade features a cascading roof design, reminiscent of leaves, that not only serves an aesthetic function but also provides essential shading to reduce heat gain. This approach emphasizes the connection between the built environment and the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless transition from indoors to outdoors. Large glass panels facilitate natural light penetration and establish a visual connection with the exterior, enhancing the overall living experience. The project includes strategically placed balconies and terraces that encourage outdoor activities while maintaining privacy for residents.

Community-Centric Residential Design

The layout of "Under the Leaves" is organized to foster community interaction while accommodating individual privacy. The ground floor features open communal spaces that facilitate family gatherings and outdoor activities, surrounded by private gardens that enhance the quality of life for residents. The design promotes social engagement through these shared areas, ensuring that residents can enjoy both communal interactions and personal retreats. Moreover, rooftop gardens are incorporated to provide additional green spaces, contributing to biodiversity and offering residents recreational spaces with scenic views.

A significant aspect of the project is its focus on sustainability. The design incorporates a natural ventilation system that utilizes outdoor pathways and cross-ventilation methods to enhance indoor air quality and reduce reliance on mechanical cooling systems. By prioritizing sustainable material choices such as reinforced concrete, engineered wood, and lightweight metals, the project minimizes environmental impact while maintaining structural integrity.

As you explore the presentation of "Under the Leaves," consider reviewing architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative architectural ideas that further illustrate the project's commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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