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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cantilevered Spaces in A Modern Multigenerational Residence

Author:
Mohamed El-agizy
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cantilevered Spaces in A Modern Multigenerational Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive cantilevered sections, the residence elevates multigenerational living while prioritizing privacy and communal integration through thoughtful spatial design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic depth.
02
Features cantilevered upper levels that optimize space and provide unique outdoor views.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Designed with privacy-focused layouts that accommodate multigenerational living dynamics.
05
Integrates extensive glass elements to create seamless indoor-outdoor connections.
The "House of Future: The Family House" project represents a thoughtful intersection of architectural design and cultural values, situated in Dubai, UAE. This residential structure is designed to accommodate multi-generational living, fostering family bonds while providing individual privacy. The architecture engages with the surrounding environment, ensuring functional and aesthetic coherence within the urban fabric.

The primary function of the house is to serve as a family residence, structured to house three generations under one roof. This design approach reflects the cultural importance placed on family unity in the region while also addressing contemporary lifestyle needs. Each level of the house is specifically allocated to different family members, allowing for both shared and private spaces, thereby enhancing the overall livability.

Design Strategies and Innovations

The project employs a stacked spatial arrangement across three floors, maintaining clarity in circulation while optimizing openness. The ground floor features communal areas designed for interaction, including expansive living and dining spaces that open to an outdoor pool. These shared spaces are equipped with large windows and sliding glass doors, facilitating natural light and a connection to the external landscape.

The first floor accommodates the parents and children's bedrooms, integrating study areas to adapt to modern educational needs. This thoughtful layout encourages proximity while allowing personal space. The second floor is dedicated to older children, providing private balconies, thus emphasizing independence. The architectural configuration promotes interaction among family members while acknowledging individual privacy.

Materials and Details

Material selection plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and performance. Concrete serves as the primary structural support, allowing for fluid design choices such as cantilevered elements. Wood is used strategically to provide warmth and texture, notably in the façade treatment with slats that regulate sunlight penetration. This feature helps maintain thermal comfort while enhancing visual appeal. Glass façades are prevalent throughout the design, offering transparency and blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors.

Unique Architectural Approaches

Distinctive design elements set the "House of Future" apart from conventional residential projects. Unique shading devices using slatted wood feature prominently throughout the structure, addressing solar gain while adding a dynamic quality to the exterior. This element reflects a commitment to sustainable architecture by optimizing energy efficiency through thoughtful passive design strategies.

Landscaping is also integral, with green spaces thoughtfully incorporated, enhancing biodiversity and creating recreational areas for the family. The architectural concepts extend beyond walls and roofs, considering the overall environmental impact and interactions with the broader community.

To fully appreciate the architectural plans, sections, and specific design details, I encourage readers to explore the project presentation. This examination will provide deeper insights into the innovative ideas that have shaped the "House of Future" and its contribution to contemporary residential architecture.
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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