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A Courtyard-Centric Residence with Vernacular Design Approach

Authors:
Manuel Villalain Gonzalez, Pedro Xavier Martins Silva, Hazem Elshafei, Hazem Mosad Mohamed
A Courtyard-Centric Residence with Vernacular Design Approach

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and compressed earth blocks, the design fosters a central courtyard that enhances environmental comfort while providing a flexible living space suited for modern families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes compressed earth blocks for enhanced thermal mass and sustainability.
02
Incorporates a central courtyard to optimize natural ventilation and daylight.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for durability and a distinct aesthetic.
04
Integrates modular design elements to allow for flexible living configurations.
05
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

QALB presents a residential design that elevates living standards through the synthesis of time-honored and contemporary architectural philosophies. Situated within a culturally vibrant locale, the project underscores the principles of adaptability and fluidity in residential environments. It is designed to cater to diverse family sizes and lifestyles, fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship. The design is organized around a central courtyard, which facilitates natural ventilation and illumination throughout the adjacent spaces. This configuration ensures a harmonious equilibrium between communal and private zones, accommodating the evolving requirements of its residents.

Design Strategies

A distinguishing feature of the QALB project is its modular design strategy, which enables a variety of living arrangements. This methodology supports a flexible living environment that can be readily adapted to accommodate shifts in family dynamics or individual preferences. Each unit is designed to be scalable and reconfigurable, guaranteeing functional living spaces that are conducive to modern lifestyles.

Sustainability is a consideration in the design, as evidenced by the selection of materials and construction techniques. The utilization of compressed earth blocks as primary structural components provides thermal mass, while locally sourced timber enhances the overall aesthetic and ambiance of the space. Furthermore, elements such as glass and metal screens augment the architectural vocabulary of the project while simultaneously ensuring energy efficiency and regulating light and heat within the interiors.

Architectural Details and Material Choices

The design incorporates vernacular motifs through its facade and landscape design, preserving a link to the local cultural legacy. The central courtyard showcases a diverse array of indigenous flora that flourishes in the regional climate, promoting biodiversity and enhancing the microclimate of the residence. Architectural sections and plans illustrate the structured layout, which prioritizes a functional segregation between communal and private spaces. This equilibrium is manifested in the allocation of service areas, such as ancillary kitchens and storage, which are strategically located to support the primary living areas without encroaching upon privacy.

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

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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

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