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Charred Wood Facades Enhancing Natural Ventilation in Sustainable Community Housing

Authors:
Sumit Maity , Shalini Maity
Charred Wood Facades Enhancing Natural Ventilation in Sustainable Community Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood facades and cross-laminated timber panels, the design enhances natural ventilation while providing a contemporary solution for sustainable family housing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wood facades for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a courtyard design that promotes natural ventilation and communal interaction.
04
Adapts traditional “Mashrabiya” elements for modern shading solutions while preserving privacy.
05
Offers provisions for future expansions, supporting long-term adaptability for residents.
The House of Future in Dubai is a residential project designed to meet the evolving housing needs of Emirati citizens, integrating traditional elements with modern architectural practices. This design emphasizes sustainability, functionality, and cultural identity, responding to the unique lifestyle and preferences of its inhabitants. This project not only addresses the external and internal living conditions but also engages with the broader context of community living and urban integration.

Sustainable Practices and Materiality

A critical aspect of the House of Future is its commitment to sustainability. The project incorporates a range of environmentally friendly materials including AAC block masonry for structural walls, ensuring effective thermal insulation. Concrete, both in the form of reinforced concrete for core structural elements and cast-in-place concrete for facades, provides durability while allowing for various design expressions. Engineered wood, specifically cross-laminated timber (CLT), is used for internal partitions, offering both strength and a natural aesthetic. These material choices reflect a careful consideration of energy efficiency and low maintenance requirements, aligning with sustainable development goals.

The project also features solar panels and strategically designed overhangs that enhance natural ventilation and reduce energy consumption. This holistic approach to sustainability is intended to create a comfortable living environment while minimizing ecological impact, setting a benchmark for future residential designs in the region.

Unique Architectural Elements

The House of Future distinguishes itself from typical residential projects through its architectural integration of traditional Emirati elements. Central to the design is the courtyard layout, which is not only a social gathering space but also serves functional needs by maximizing cooling airflow and natural light penetration. This open space is surrounded by units that allow for privacy while facilitating interaction among residents.

Another unique aspect is the incorporation of “Mashrabiya” screens, which provide essential shading and ventilation. This traditional architectural feature connects the home with its cultural heritage while adapting it for contemporary living needs. The overall design also considers future modifications, with adaptable spaces that can be easily reconfigured as residents' needs change, ensuring longevity and relevance of the buildings.

Social and Functional Design

The spatial organization of the House of Future promotes a sense of community while respecting personal privacy. The layout effectively separates communal and private areas, enhancing social interaction among residents without sacrificing individual comfort. This balance is particularly relevant in the Emirati context, where family and community are paramount.

Key functional spaces such as the kitchen, living room, and dining areas are designed with flexibility in mind, offering open configurations that encourage adaptive use. The project also anticipates future expansions, with strategic provisions for potential growth, reinforcing its longevity as a residential solution.

For a more in-depth understanding of the House of Future, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation. This resource provides additional insights into the architecture and design principles that define this innovative residential initiative.
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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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