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Charred Wooden Panels and Natural Ventilation in a Community-Focused Residential Complex

Authors:
Fritz Akhmad Nuzir, Zaky Umara, Lingga Hutama, Naura Diva Ratasya , Muhamad Arifin Kurniansyah , Daus Maulana , Galuh Wigustia
Charred Wooden Panels and Natural Ventilation in a Community-Focused Residential Complex

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden panels and traditional wind catchers, the design seamlessly integrates cultural heritage with modern sustainability to create a dynamic residential community in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes traditional wind catchers for natural cooling.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for fire resistance.
03
Features modular spaces adaptable to family needs.
04
Includes a central Majlis for cultural gatherings.
05
Employs Arabic motifs in ornamental panels for heritage connection.
The "Soul of Culture" project is a significant architectural milestone situated in Dubai, UAE. It embodies a fusion of modern design principles and traditional Emirati values, aiming to create a living environment that fosters community and cultural engagement. The architecture reflects the diverse demographics of the region, encompassing features and spaces designed for interaction, functionality, and sustainability.

The project's primary function is to serve as a residential complex that accommodates diverse families while providing communal areas for socializing and cultural expression. The design carefully addresses the needs of its users through an organization of spaces that include public, semi-public, and private zones. This thoughtful layout encourages a sense of belonging among residents, aligning with the project’s overarching mission to weave cultural identity into the fabric of contemporary living.

Unique Materiality and Cultural Integration

The material selection in this project is a crucial element that distinguishes it from typical architectural endeavors. Structural components utilize reinforced concrete for durability, while expansive glass elements enhance natural light penetration and create visual connections with the outdoors. Timber is employed in specific details, providing warmth and a tactile quality that softens the overall aesthetic. Ornamental panels crafted with traditional Arabic motifs not only contribute to the overall design but also serve practical purposes by providing shade and reducing heat gain, thus aligning with the project's sustainability goals.

Sustainability is further emphasized through passive design strategies such as the incorporation of wind catchers, which facilitate natural ventilation. This design choice reflects a deep understanding of the climatic challenges faced in Dubai and demonstrates a commitment to reducing reliance on mechanical systems. Additionally, modular spaces in the design allow for flexible adaptations, accommodating changing family dynamics while retaining the overall architectural integrity.

Focus on Community Engagement

The layout of the "Soul of Culture" project emphasizes community engagement through the integration of various communal spaces. Key areas include a central Majlis, which serves as a gathering point for residents, fostering a culture of hospitality and interaction. This design approach aligns with traditional Emirati social practices, creating opportunities for residents from diverse backgrounds to come together. The outdoor sunken gardens and communal courtyards serve as additional venues for social gathering and recreation, reinforcing the importance of interpersonal connections within the community.

The overall architectural design reflects a thoughtful dialogue between the historical context and contemporary needs. By effectively combining functional living spaces with culturally resonant elements, the "Soul of Culture" project stands as a refined example of how architecture can engage with and reflect the local heritage while addressing modern-day requirements.

For a more in-depth understanding of this architectural project, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed design elements, readers are encouraged to explore further documentation and presentations related to the "Soul of Culture."
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MICROHOME
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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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