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Central Courtyard With Solar Panels Enhances Sustainable Living in Contemporary Family Home

Authors:
Bhavana Gulaty, Tanishq Roy, Sachin Gulaty
Central Courtyard With Solar Panels Enhances Sustainable Living in Contemporary Family Home

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainability through the integration of solar panels and a central courtyard, the design redefines family living in a contemporary context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central courtyard designed for natural ventilation and family interaction.
02
Merging of traditional mashrabiya screens with modern privacy solutions.
03
Rooftop pavilions create versatile outdoor living spaces.
04
Use of bamboo flooring as a sustainable and aesthetic choice.
05
Solar panels integrated seamlessly into the roof design for energy efficiency.
"Dar Altanwir" is a contemporary residential architecture project located in Dubai, designed for a family of four. The project embodies a fusion of traditional Emirati elements with modern architectural practices, providing both functionality and cultural significance. At the core of its design is a central courtyard, a key feature that enhances the living experience, facilitating natural ventilation and promoting outdoor engagement. The layout of the house supports various family activities while integrating seamlessly with the surrounding environment.

Functional Areas and Spatial Organization

The house features a well-defined spatial organization that includes various functional zones. These zones encompass communal spaces such as the Majlis, designated for social gatherings, and private areas including bedrooms and a home theatre. Each area is designed to promote interaction while respecting the need for privacy among family members. The incorporation of large windows and strategically placed openings allows for abundant natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere throughout the residence.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the defining aspects of "Dar Altanwir" is its innovative use of traditional architectural features, such as the mashrabiya. These lattice screens are harnessed to enhance privacy while allowing airflow, effectively merging tradition with modern needs. The introduction of rooftop pavilions serves multiple purposes, creating versatile spaces for social gatherings and leisure activities, thereby reinforcing community engagement in an urban setting.

Materiality is a focal point of this project. The use of durable materials like marble and porcelain tiles in communal areas underscores a commitment to quality, while bamboo flooring in private spaces reflects sustainability. Solar panels integrated into the design highlight a proactive approach to energy efficiency.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is embedded within the architectural framework. The project emphasizes eco-friendly practices through its material selection and energy-efficient systems. The incorporation of water-saving technologies and the strategic positioning of solar panels exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to residential design. These elements not only reduce the ecological footprint of the home but also contribute to a healthier living environment.

Further Exploration

For those interested in gaining deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas of "Dar Altanwir," an exploration of the project presentation is recommended. By examining these elements, readers can better understand how the project effectively balances functionality with aesthetic appeal while addressing contemporary residential needs within a cultural context.
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The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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