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Charred Wooden Screens and Natural Stone Create a Culturally Responsive Living Space in Dubai

Author:
Wael Elgendy
Charred Wooden Screens and Natural Stone Create a Culturally Responsive Living Space in Dubai

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden screens and locally sourced sandstone, this residence exemplifies a blend of cultural heritage and modern functionality while providing adaptable living spaces conducive to community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular cube system for customizable room configurations.
02
Incorporates greywater recycling for sustainable water management.
03
Features a traditional Majlis space designed for community gathering.
04
Employs locally sourced sandstone to enhance cultural relevance.
05
Includes natural ventilation strategies to minimize energy consumption.
Maskan is an innovative architectural project located in Dubai, UAE, designed to address contemporary housing needs while respecting cultural traditions. The project encompasses a modular living system that caters to a diverse range of familial structures, allowing for various spatial configurations. Its design effectively blends functionality with cultural relevance, promoting communal and private interactions within a cohesive living environment.

The project is sectioned into three principal zones: the public zone, living zone, and sleeping zone. The public zone includes spaces such as the Majlis, a garage, and service areas, serving both residents and visitors while maintaining the privacy of the home. The living zone provides areas for family interaction, balancing openness with intimacy, while the sleeping zone prioritizes individual privacy with strategically located bedrooms. This zoning strategy offers an organized layout that supports both social engagement and personal retreat.

Modular Design Approach
Maskan differentiates itself from traditional housing projects through its unique modular design approach known as the "cube system." This system allows for customizable room arrangements within a three-dimensional grid framework. By enabling flexibility and adaptability, the design accommodates the evolving dynamics of modern families. Homeowners have the option to reconfigure spaces as needed, which is particularly beneficial in addressing future expansions or alterations to suit changing lifestyles.

Sustainability and Cultural Integration
The project emphasizes sustainability through passive design strategies aimed at minimizing energy consumption. Natural ventilation techniques, extensive landscaping, and solar panel integration highlight the commitment to environmental responsibility. Additionally, a greywater recycling system enhances water conservation efforts, further contributing to the project's eco-friendly design.

Culturally, the use of architectural elements such as Mashrabiyah screens reflects a deep connection to the region’s heritage. These screens not only provide privacy but also facilitate airflow, demonstrating a thoughtful integration of traditional concepts within a modern context. The material palette includes locally sourced materials such as sandstone and aluminum, ensuring that the design is both durable and aesthetically aligned with local architectural practices.

In summary, Maskan represents a thoughtful synthesis of culture, functionality, and sustainability within the context of contemporary architecture in Dubai. The unique modular approach and commitment to eco-friendly practices position this project as a key example in the discussion of future housing solutions. For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural plans, sections, and design details of Maskan, further exploration of the project presentation is encouraged.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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