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Charred Wood Shingles and Thermal Insulation in a Family-Focused Residence

Author:
Evan A Williams
Charred Wood Shingles and Thermal Insulation in a Family-Focused Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wood shingles and advanced thermal insulation, this residence offers a culturally attuned solution for family living in Dubai's challenging climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system to address local water scarcity.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Designed with operable facades to maximize natural ventilation and minimize cooling costs.
05
Includes a traditional maḥjil to foster community and family interactions.
Bayt Al-Zephyr is a residential architectural project located in Dubai, designed to meet the needs of its inhabitants while respecting the cultural and environmental context of the region. The project showcases a harmonious blend of contemporary architectural practices and traditional Emirati values, emphasizing sustainability and community interaction. The layout promotes social engagement through its courtyard design, while maintaining privacy for individual family units.

Design Approach and Materiality

The architectural design employs a careful selection of materials that enhance performance while reflecting local building traditions. The project incorporates reinforced concrete for structural integrity, thermal insulation panels to improve energy efficiency, and glass facades that maximize natural light while regulating indoor temperatures. Wood accents are utilized to invoke a sense of warmth, and patterned tiles foster a connection to Emirati craftsmanship.

The building responds effectively to Dubai's harsh climate. It features integrated louvers that control solar heat gain and operable facades that enhance natural ventilation. Additionally, a rainwater harvesting system has been incorporated to address localized water scarcity, alongside solar panels providing renewable energy sources. This strategic integration of materials and technologies illustrates a commitment to reducing the environmental footprint.

Cultural Relevance and Functional Layout

Bayt Al-Zephyr places a significant emphasis on cultural relevance through its design. The structure includes dedicated maḥjils that serve as communal spaces for social gatherings, reflecting the importance of hospitality within Emirati culture. Multi-generational living is a key consideration, as private suites are designed to accommodate varying family needs while maintaining spacious communal areas.

The project showcases unique structural approaches, including shear walls for enhanced stability against wind forces and sophisticated mechanical systems that facilitate air circulation and humidity control. This comprehensive focus on both function and cultural narrative distinguishes Bayt Al-Zephyr from other contemporary residential projects, making it a model of integrative design.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of this architectural endeavor, a complete examination of architectural plans, sections, and designs is available. Exploring these elements will yield further insights into the thoughtful design ideas and the effective melding of traditional and modern architectural practices within Bayt Al-Zephyr.
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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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