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Central Courtyard Integrated With 3D Printed Concrete and Traditional Mashrabiya Features in Sustainable Residence

Authors:
Ileana-cristina Balan, Ana-raluca Stoian
Central Courtyard Integrated With 3D Printed Concrete and Traditional Mashrabiya Features in Sustainable Residence

Project in-detail

3D printed concrete envelops a central courtyard, harmonizing traditional mashrabiya elements with sustainable energy solutions to create a modern residential space tailored for desert living.
5 key facts about this project
01
3D printed concrete serves as the primary structural element, enhancing construction efficiency.
02
The design integrates traditional mashrabiya screens for effective shading and ventilation.
03
A central courtyard promotes natural cooling, reducing energy consumption.
04
Sustainability features include rooftop solar panels for energy self-sufficiency.
05
Local materials were prioritized to create a strong connection to the regional context.

### Project Overview

Bayt Al Sahraa is situated in Dubai and represents a thoughtful architectural solution tailored to the region's arid climate and rich cultural heritage. The design integrates traditional Arabian architectural principles with modern construction practices, aiming to create a functional and sustainable living environment. This project employs cutting-edge techniques such as 3D printing and utilizes locally sourced materials to address environmental and societal needs.

### Spatial Organization and Connectivity

The design is centered around a central courtyard that functions as the core of the residence, promoting natural ventilation and creating a tranquil atmosphere. The layout consists of rectangular volumes that accommodate family, service, and guest areas, strategically aligned to enhance airflow and operational efficiency. The first-floor bridge allows natural light to permeate the interior, while a basement level is designated for essential technical systems, including water management. Direct access to the central courtyard from living spaces fosters social interaction while ensuring privacy for residents.

### Materiality and Resource Management

The construction of Bayt Al Sahraa prominently features locally sourced materials, underpinning the project's commitment to sustainability. Key materials include 3D printed concrete for structural walls, extensive glass elements for optimal daylighting, and natural stone and brick for facades and flooring, ensuring durability that reflects traditional craftsmanship. Aesthetic and cultural resonance is achieved through the integration of textiles and tapestry elements inspired by regional designs. Additionally, solar panels installed on the rooftop exemplify the project's dedication to renewable energy.

Water resource management is a pivotal aspect of the design, incorporating advanced systems that utilize water cooling mechanisms to mitigate heat while a local generator in the basement supports energy needs. The architectural incorporation of mashrabiya elements in the facade enables privacy and airflow, melding cultural heritage with modern climatic responses.

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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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