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Charred Wood Shingles and Natural Ventilation in a Sustainable Urban Residence

Author:
Jorge Isaac Urbina Alcasena
Charred Wood Shingles and Natural Ventilation in a Sustainable Urban Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and local natural ventilation through a traditional Barjeel, the residence exemplifies sustainable living in an urban context by prioritizing energy efficiency and community integration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a traditional Barjeel for passive cooling and ventilation.
02
Incorporates locally sourced charred wood shingles for durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and eco-friendliness.
04
Design includes a flexible layout accommodating future adaptations for residents.
05
Integrates a central garden promoting biodiversity and natural landscaping.

# Analytical Report on the "House of the Future" Architectural Design Project

## Overview
Situated in Al Qouz, a residential area in Dubai, UAE, the project explores the interplay between cultural identity, sustainability, and urban community living. The design integrates traditional forms with modern methodologies, creating a functional living space that responds to its environmental context. The intent is to address contemporary challenges in residential architecture while fostering community cohesion and individual expression.

## Spatial Strategy
The site is strategically organized in a rectangular composition of 30x15 meters, featuring a basement and two levels that accommodate diverse functions while maintaining an aesthetically coherent form. The layout promotes interaction within the surrounding residential landscape, facilitating both individuality and a shared community identity. This approach is informed by a thorough understanding of the Al Qouz urban context, ensuring compatibility with local infrastructure and traditional elements, thus bridging past and present architectural narratives.

### Adaptable Spaces
The design incorporates flexibility, proposing various configurations to meet the evolving needs of its residents. Features such as open-plan areas and movable partitions enhance the utility of spaces, allowing for adjustments based on occupancy and use. This adaptability extends the residence's functionality over time, catering to changing lifestyles and preferences.

## Materiality and Sustainability
The material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and cultural authenticity. Key materials include concrete for structural support, natural timber for warmth and versatility, and traditional lattice-work elements that facilitate ventilation while linking the design to regional heritage. Large glass windows are strategically placed to maximize natural light and connect residents with the surrounding gardens.

### Passive Cooling Systems
The integration of the "Barjeel," or wind tower, exemplifies the project's focus on passive cooling techniques. This architectural feature channels breezes into the house, minimizing reliance on mechanical cooling systems and reducing energy consumption. Additionally, the design incorporates a central garden that enhances biodiversity and water conservation through innovative landscaping strategies.

## Future Sustainability Initiatives
Beyond the immediate architectural design, the project aims to inform broader urban development strategies that emphasize renewable energy and resource management. Features such as solar panels on the roof and integrated waste treatment systems highlight a proactive approach to sustainability. These elements not only elevate the residence's ecological performance but also position it as a model for future residential developments in urban settings.

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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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