Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Screens and Passive Cooling Strategies in Desert Residences

Author:
Edmond Eid
Charred Wooden Screens and Passive Cooling Strategies in Desert Residences

Project in-detail

Charred wooden screens and thermal mass construction combine to create a sustainable living environment that enhances ventilation and privacy while addressing the demands of desert climate conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wood cladding enhances durability while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural stability and reduced carbon footprint.
03
Integrated passive cooling systems optimize indoor temperatures without relying on mechanical cooling.
04
Moucharabieh elements promote natural ventilation and privacy while reducing sun exposure.
05
The bent A-frame design facilitates efficient water runoff and maximizes ceiling height.

### Overview
Located in a desert region with extreme heat, Al Moucharabieh addresses climatic challenges while reflecting cultural heritage and modern residential demands. The design integrates traditional elements, particularly the moucharabieh, within a contemporary framework aimed at enhancing livability and environmental responsiveness. Two variations in architectural schematics, Option 01 and Option 02, feature distinct facade treatments and structural compositions that cater to diverse aesthetic and functional preferences.

### Climatic Responsiveness
The design prioritizes effective thermal management strategies to combat intense solar exposure and maintain comfort within the living spaces. Key features include extensive overhangs that minimize direct sunlight during peak hours, as well as the use of moucharabieh on the facades to regulate light and airflow, which further reduces the dependency on mechanical cooling systems. These strategies align with sustainable design principles, promoting energy efficiency and user comfort.

### Material Utilization
The material selection across the project is varied and intentional, contributing both to the structural integrity and aesthetic expression. Concrete serves as the primary structural medium, while expansive glass elements bring in natural light, enhancing the interior environment. Wood is strategically used in the moucharabieh, providing warmth and contrast against the concrete and glass. Additionally, exposed steel elements offer support for vegetation and the structural framework, integrating functionality with modern design. Exterior finishes, including light grey paint for heat reflection and dark grey stamped concrete for visual depth, reinforce the project’s cohesive material palette.

The spatial organization emphasizes utility and comfort, with open living areas on the ground floor promoting connectivity with outdoor spaces, while private spaces on the first floor are designed to capture scenic views. Overall, Al Moucharabieh showcases a balanced integration of cultural relevance and contemporary innovation, positioning it as a representative model for future desert architecture.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
Competition organisers

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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy