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Central Courtyard Surrounded by Travertine and Modular Steel Elements in Contemporary Emirati Living

Author:
Guillermo Carpio
Central Courtyard Surrounded by Travertine and Modular Steel Elements in Contemporary Emirati Living

Project in-detail

The central courtyard framed by modular steel and finished with travertine serves as a vital social hub in this villa, promoting communal living while reflecting traditional Emirati cultural values.
5 key facts about this project
01
The villa's design features a central courtyard that enhances natural light and ventilation throughout the living spaces.
02
Exterior finishes include locally sourced travertine, integrating regional materials into the modern design.
03
A modular steel structure allows for efficient construction and adaptability to site conditions.
04
Sustainable practices are highlighted by the use of solar collectors for energy generation.
05
Interior spaces incorporate walnut wood finishes, adding warmth and cultural relevance to the contemporary setting.

## Overview

The Maktub Courtyard Garden Villa, conceived for the "House of the Future" competition, is situated in a context that reflects Emirati culture while integrating modern design principles. This residential project aims to harmonize contemporary living with traditional values, emphasized through spatial organization and sustainability measures.

### Spatial Strategy

At the core of the design is a central courtyard, facilitating both social interaction and the embodiment of familial coexistence, which is significant in Emirati culture. The spatial arrangement promotes a strong connection between interior and exterior spaces, enhancing the overall living experience. The design incorporates a central pathway that functions as a visual and functional axis, creating distinct but interconnected living zones. Notably, the arrangement of various building components in a modular fashion provides flexibility and adaptability in daily interactions among residents.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The villa employs a modular steel framing system, enhancing construction efficiency while maintaining a commitment to sustainable practices. The exterior features high-pressure laminate plates, exposed concrete, and travertine marble for aesthetic and functional benefits. Internally, a combination of synthetic insulation, aluminum finishes, and walnut wood details contribute to enhanced energy performance and comfort.

Sustainability is prioritized through features such as solar collectors for energy generation and natural ventilation strategies that optimize airflow, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. The project also utilizes eco-friendly construction methods to minimize waste and facilitate efficient assembly, further promoting environmental stewardship.

### Functional Program

The layout includes distinct blocks designated for specific purposes: a service block for household management, a cuisine and dining area suitable for both daily meals and hospitality, a family block that fosters interaction, a gathering and office space for social and professional activities, and separate bedroom blocks ensuring privacy. Each area is thoughtfully designed to reflect daily routines and cultural practices, ensuring functionality aligns with the needs of its residents.

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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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