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Charred Wooden Screens and Elevated Structure Define This Sustainable Family Residence

Author:
Hazim Habib
Charred Wooden Screens and Elevated Structure Define This Sustainable Family Residence

Project in-detail

Elevated and enhanced by charred wooden screens, this family residence utilizes sustainable materials and natural ventilation to create a modern living environment rooted in cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure incorporates natural ventilation strategies to reduce energy consumption.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing aesthetic texture.
03
Large interior light wells maximize natural light throughout living spaces.
04
The design integrates traditional Mashrabiya screens for privacy and airflow.
05
Indoor gardens create biophilic connections within the home environment.

## Project Overview

Beit Al-Hawa is situated within a context that draws inspiration from traditional Middle Eastern architectural practices, particularly reflecting Emirati heritage. The design seeks to integrate contemporary living with elements of cultural significance, ensuring functionality while catering to environmental considerations.

### Spatial Strategy and Environmental Integration

The architectural approach emphasizes an elevated design, positioning the living spaces above a basement parking area to optimize space utilization and enhance natural air circulation. The incorporation of natural ventilation systems, including strategically placed windows for cross-ventilation, minimizes dependence on mechanical cooling, underscoring a commitment to energy efficiency. A light well integrated into the structure allows natural light to penetrate deep within the living areas, further reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

### Material Selection and Aesthetic Cohesion

Material choices are fundamental to the architectural expression of Beit Al-Hawa. Durable concrete serves as the primary structural material, while masonry units are utilized for the traditional Mashrabiya screens, providing an aesthetic nod to heritage with enhanced privacy. Expansive glass openings facilitate a connection with the outdoor environment, allowing for increased daylight transmission. The use of natural wood finishes adds warmth and textural variation within the interiors, complemented by modern metal elements that contrast effectively with the warmer materials. Textiles in furnishings are selected for both comfort and durability, aligning with the climatic demands of the region.

Key features include the classic Mashrabiya screens, which allow filtered light into the interiors while ensuring privacy, and an open-floor plan that encourages movement and interaction among spaces. Additionally, strategically placed indoor gardens contribute to the aesthetic and promote a connection to nature within the living environment.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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