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Charred Wooden Facade Enhancing Airflow in A Desert-Inspired Residential Design

Authors:
Nuno Miguel AraÚjo Campos De Castro, Ana PatrÍcia Sobral Santos
Charred Wooden Facade Enhancing Airflow in A Desert-Inspired Residential Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing a charred wooden facade to enhance natural airflow, the design cultivates a microclimate within its central courtyard, providing a sustainable and comfortable residential environment in Dubai's harsh landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a central courtyard to create a self-regulating microclimate.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
04
Designed with large glass openings for optimized natural light and ventilation.
05
Includes perforated screens on the facade to facilitate airflow while maintaining privacy.
The architectural project "Airy" is a residential design situated in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This project showcases a modern interpretation of traditional Emirati housing, designed to address the demands of contemporary living while responding to the environmental conditions of the region. The central focus of the architecture is the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, leveraging natural light and ventilation to enhance comfort.

The structure is organized around a central courtyard that serves as the heart of the home, a characteristic feature of traditional Middle Eastern architecture. This element facilitates passive cooling, creating a desirable microclimate while promoting social interaction among residents.

Unique Design Approaches

The design of "Airy" incorporates several innovative features that distinguish it from typical residential projects. One significant approach is the extensive use of prefabricated insulated concrete modules, which provide effective thermal regulation and structural support. The incorporation of large glass openings allows abundant natural light to flood the interior spaces while maintaining connectivity with the outdoors. In addition, the use of perforated screens on the facade plays a critical role in enhancing airflow within the building, effectively lowering the reliance on mechanical cooling.

Sustainable elements are also integrated into the design, including provisions for photovoltaic solar panels and a hydraulic radiant system. These features not only contribute to energy efficiency but also align the project with modern sustainability practices.

Specific Areas and Details

The project’s spatial organization consists of distinct zones that balance privacy and communal living. The ground floor features shared spaces, including a large living area that opens up to the courtyard, nurturing interactions within the household. The upper level is dedicated to private quarters, each with access to personal patios, thereby enhancing both comfort and privacy.

The use of local materials, particularly natural stone finishes, connects the structure to its geographical context while enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The overall design advocates for flexibility, allowing areas of the home to adapt over time as residents’ needs evolve.

The "Airy" project exemplifies a thoughtful integration of architectural principles, material efficiency, and cultural relevance in its design. For a more comprehensive understanding of the architecture, including architectural plans and sections, viewers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for detailed insights into the design’s functional and aesthetic attributes.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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