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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.

The House of the Future, located in the UAE, exemplifies contemporary Emirati architecture by integrating traditional values with modern design principles. This residential project responds to the unique climatic and cultural context of the region, supporting multi-generational living while prioritizing functionality and sustainability. The design features multiple levels, large outdoor spaces, and advanced technology, creating a balanced environment for family interaction and personal retreat.

Cultural Relevance and Functionality

The architecture of the House of the Future reflects Emirati cultural norms, emphasizing openness and social gathering. The layout encourages interaction among family members through centrally positioned courtyards and large terraces. These outdoor spaces serve both functional and social purposes, allowing gatherings while accommodating the climate's demands.

The structure employs modularity, offering various apartment configurations: one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units. This adaptability ensures that the design can evolve with the changing needs of its inhabitants, whether this be accommodating larger families or repurposing spaces for different functions. Maintaining privacy is also vital; the strategic placement of voids and screens creates light-filled interiors while protecting residents from external view, embodying a thoughtful approach to spatial organization.

Innovative Design Approaches

The project’s unique aspects set it apart from typical residential designs in the region. It features:

1. Strategic use of outdoor terraces and roof gardens, promoting outdoor activities and communal living while providing vistas of the environment. 2. Sustainable design systems including solar panels and water harvesting technologies, reducing the ecological footprint and aligning with modern sustainable practices.

3. Extensive use of local materials, such as concrete for structural integrity, wood for warmth, and glass for natural lighting, ensuring a harmonious blend with the surrounding landscape.

4. Open courtyards positioned at the heart of the house facilitate natural ventilation and light penetration, enhancing indoor climate control without relying on mechanical systems.

Spatial Configuration and Materiality

The layout of the House of the Future maximizes efficiency while preserving flow and enhancing user experience. The entrance leads into a central lobby that bifurcates to social and service areas, optimizing the residential function. Bedrooms are arranged on the upper levels, ensuring privacy, while service areas are discreetly located.

The choice of materials contributes to both functionality and aesthetics. Concrete provides durability, while wood elements introduce warmth. The integration of metal screens offers sun shading, balancing aesthetics with performance. These design elements reinforce the architectural intent to create a comfortable living environment suited for the local climate.

The House of the Future embodies a synthesis of cultural heritage and modern living, prioritizing community engagement and environmental responsibility. For a comprehensive look at this project, including architectural plans, sections, and design details, consider exploring the presentation further to gain deeper insights into the architectural ideas that shape this innovative home.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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