Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Central Courtyards and Wind Towers Enhance Natural Cooling in Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
Beatrice Garampelli, Elizabeth Heidenreich
Central Courtyards and Wind Towers Enhance Natural Cooling in Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Integrating central courtyards and traditional wind towers, this residential design effectively utilizes local materials to provide natural cooling and adaptable living spaces for families in an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates central courtyards that enhance natural cooling and air circulation throughout the living spaces.
02
Wind towers are employed to effectively channel breezes, improving indoor comfort without relying on mechanical systems.
03
Local aggregates are used in the concrete mix to create a stronger connection to the surrounding environment.
04
Flexible room layouts are available, allowing residents to customize their living spaces to accommodate evolving family needs.
05
Mashrabiya screens are integrated into the façade, providing privacy while allowing for controlled light entry.
The Courts project is an architectural endeavor located in Dubai, UAE, designed to merge contemporary living with traditional Arab influences. It emphasizes a central courtyard design, optimizing both private and communal spaces while addressing the region's climatic challenges. The project represents a modern interpretation of "Shanab housing," aimed at fostering community interaction and enhancing residents' quality of life.

The primary function of The Courts is to provide adaptable, family-oriented living spaces that cater to the needs of varying household sizes. Key design elements focus on sustainability and flexibility, allowing residents to personalize their homes as needed. This adaptability is crucial in a rapidly changing urban environment, where family dynamics and lifestyles evolve over time.

Integration of Courtyards and Natural Ventilation

A defining feature of The Courts is its central courtyard layout, which serves as a natural ventilator and social hub. This architectural approach allows for cross-ventilation, cooling indoor spaces and enhancing comfort in Dubai's hot climate. The courtyard not only acts as an environmental buffer but also promotes interaction among residents, fostering a sense of community.

Additionally, the design incorporates traditional Barjeel or wind towers to capture and distribute breezes, enhancing natural cooling within the living areas. This unique blend of modern design techniques with cultural heritage enables the project to address both functional and aesthetic requirements effectively.

Materials Selection and Sustainability

The materials used in The Courts reflect a commitment to both sustainability and local context. Prefabricated concrete is predominantly utilized for its efficiency in construction and thermal properties. Local aggregates are mixed into the concrete to blend the structure within its surroundings. The strategic use of glass in façades maximizes natural light while maintaining privacy and reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

The project emphasizes water conservation through a decentralized wastewater treatment system, allowing for the reuse of water for irrigation. This practical approach to sustainability aligns with global environmental goals while meeting the demands of modern living.

The Courts stands apart from conventional architectural models by incorporating flexibility in its layout, allowing for easy modifications to accommodate changing family needs. This adaptability is not only practical but also enhances the overall functionality of the residential units. The use of Mashrabiya screens enables privacy while allowing for controlled light entry, merging traditional aesthetics with contemporary functionality.

For a more detailed exploration of The Courts and its innovative architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to review the project presentation. An analysis of the architectural ideas behind this project reveals how they contribute to a thoughtful residential solution in a rapidly growing urban landscape.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy