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Charred Wood Shingles and Precast Concrete Create a Flexible Living Environment in a Modern Emirati Residence

Authors:
Amirhossein Nikdel, Amir Hossein Rezaei, Maryam Habibi, Saba Mahdiyar, Reyhaneh Fouladi, Shokooh Lotfi
Charred Wood Shingles and Precast Concrete Create a Flexible Living Environment in a Modern Emirati Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood shingles and precast concrete, the design offers a modular living environment that adapts to the evolving needs of Emirati families while maintaining cultural integrity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainable building practices.
03
Features a flexible modular layout that adapts to changing family needs.
04
Integrates a central courtyard for natural light and social interaction.
05
Utilizes precast concrete elements for efficient construction and structural integrity.
The FutureShift House is an architectural design project situated in Al Fourjan, United Arab Emirates. It embodies a modern approach to residential living, targeting Emirati families. The design emphasizes flexibility and sustainability, allowing for adaptability as family structures change over time. This project integrates cultural elements reflective of the region, presenting a model of how contemporary architecture can engage with traditional values.

The house features a modular layout that supports dynamic living arrangements. The central courtyard serves as the heart of the residence, fostering social interaction among family members while maintaining privacy. This dual nature of communal and individual spaces is vital to the architectural concept. The separation of areas for private and social functions allows for both family closeness and necessary boundaries, a key consideration in Emirati culture.

Sustainability is a primary focus of the FutureShift House. The use of precast concrete, glass, and wood addresses environmental concerns associated with construction while providing durability and aesthetic appeal. The project incorporates intelligent design principles which prioritize energy efficiency, using natural light and ventilation to minimize energy consumption.

Modularity in design is a standout feature of the FutureShift House. Unlike conventional homes, spaces can be adjusted with relative ease, allowing for future expansions or reconfigurations according to the family's needs. This adaptability is paired with a sophisticated digital platform that facilitates customization. Homeowners can select layouts and dimensions, ensuring that the house accommodates varying lifestyle demands without the need for extensive renovation.

Architectural sections reveal thoughtful consideration in spatial organization. Communal areas such as the living room, dining space, and kitchen occupy the ground floor, promoting interaction among family members. The first floor is reserved for private quarters, enhancing individual comfort while still maintaining accessibility to the main living area. This configuration underscores the importance of relationship dynamics in architectural design within the context of Emirati society.

The integration of cultural symbols, such as terrace gardens and native flora like the date palm, strengthens the connection between the occupants and their heritage. These elements not only enhance the aesthetic character of the house but also serve practical functions, contributing to the overall well-being of the residents.

For those interested in exploring the architectural details further, an in-depth presentation of the project is available. Engaging with the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide valuable insights into the thoughtfully considered architectural ideas that define the FutureShift House.
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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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