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Charred Wooden Screens and Sustainable Terraces in a Modern Emirati Family Home

Author:
Sahar Darwich
Charred Wooden Screens and Sustainable Terraces in a Modern Emirati Family Home

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden screens for shading and natural ventilation, the design integrates flexible living spaces with sustainable terraces to create a functional family residence in the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for rapid construction and structural efficiency.
03
Features large outdoor terraces designed for community gathering and interaction.
04
Employs a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and ventilation.
05
Integrates sustainable water harvesting systems for efficient resource management.

## Project Overview
Located in the United Arab Emirates, the design of the House of the Future harmonizes contemporary living with traditional Emirati architectural principles. This residence thoughtfully addresses the lifestyle needs of Emirati families by incorporating communal outdoor spaces and advanced sustainable technologies.

## Spatial Strategy and Privacy
The layout emphasizes interconnectivity and functionality across multiple levels, fostering a dynamic relationship between indoor and outdoor environments. Large terraces and balconies are designed to promote informal socialization, reflecting cultural preferences for openness and communal gathering while responding to the local climate. The spatial organization centers around a lobby that seamlessly connects social areas with dedicated service zones, minimizing corridor space and enhancing flow. Privacy is a key consideration, achieved through strategically positioned voids and screens that facilitate light and airflow while preserving the seclusion of family members.

## Materiality and Sustainable Design
A diverse palette of materials contributes to both aesthetic appeal and environmental responsibility. Concrete provides structural robustness suitable for the climatic conditions, while wood adds warmth through window screens and beam covers. Expansive glass openings enhance natural light and visibility to landscaped areas. Sun-shading metal screens balance visual design with thermal efficiency. Sourcing materials locally supports regional economies and aligns with sustainability efforts, as seen in features like solar panels and water harvesting systems. The landscape incorporates native plants, promoting ecological balance and reducing water usage. Additionally, rooftop terraces and open courtyards encourage outdoor activities and cultural practices, enriching the livability of the home.

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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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