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Natural Ventilation Through Arched Travertine Cladding in Contemporary Villas

Author:
Federico Valenti
Natural Ventilation Through Arched Travertine Cladding in Contemporary Villas

Project in-detail

Arched travertine cladding and innovative natural ventilation systems distinguish these contemporary villas in Dubai, providing a sustainable living environment that harmonizes with the cultural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes arched travertine cladding for natural airflow and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features integrated solar panels for energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
03
Incorporates wind towers to optimize ventilation without mechanical systems.
04
Offers shared utility management to foster community engagement among residents.
05
Includes double-height ceilings that enhance spatial dynamics and natural light throughout the interiors.
The Arches project is a contemporary architectural design located in Dubai, showcasing a thoughtful blend of sustainability, cultural relevance, and modern luxury. This project represents a shift in residential architecture toward structures that not only meet the aesthetic desires of modern homeowners but also address environmental concerns through energy-efficient design and sustainable living practices. The villas incorporate traditional elements reminiscent of Arabic architecture, particularly the use of archways and intricate geometric patterns, which seamlessly connect to the cultural history of the region.

The primary function of The Arches is to serve as high-end residential spaces that provide comfort, functionality, and a sense of belonging within a community. The design carefully considers the lifestyle of its inhabitants, emphasizing spaciousness, natural light, and ease of movement through open floor plans. Each villa is designed to foster connectivity among the spaces while maintaining privacy, addressing the social dynamics of contemporary living in Dubai.

Key elements of the architectural design include expansive glass façades that enhance the interaction between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing for natural light to flood the interiors. The use of classic travertine and navona travertine for external cladding not only provides an aesthetically pleasing surface but also promotes airflow around the structures. The incorporation of wooden roof structures adds a natural warmth to the overall design, while state-of-the-art photovoltaic and solar thermal panels demonstrate a commitment to harnessing renewable energy sources, reducing dependency on grid power.

The layout of the villas is characterized by a central living area flanked by private quarters, including spacious master bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and additional leisure spaces such as secondary lounges. Features like double-height ceilings and skylights contribute to an airy atmosphere while optimizing thermal comfort. The design prioritizes the optimization of natural ventilation through strategically placed wind towers, eliminating the need for excessive artificial cooling.

One of the unique design approaches employed in The Arches is the consideration of community engagement through shared amenities. The project promotes a collective approach to resource management, enabling neighboring villas to share utilities, which enhances the sense of community among residents. In addition, the use of domotic automation technologies further enriches the living experience by allowing homeowners to control environmental systems tailored to their specific needs.

The careful selection of materials plays a crucial role in defining the character of the villas. The interiors feature luxurious finishes such as Calacatta white marble and walnut light for furniture, creating a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. Complementing these are the use of black Marquina marble and honey onyx for various design elements, showcasing a sophisticated palette that balances elegance and functionality.

Through its innovative design and attention to detail, The Arches stands as an exemplar of contemporary architecture that respects and builds upon traditional values. The project is not merely about constructing buildings but is focused on creating a meaningful living environment that enhances the quality of life for its residents. With a commitment to sustainability, functionality, and community, The Arches presents a modern interpretation of residential living that stands in harmony with its surroundings.

For readers interested in delving deeper into the architectural aspects of this project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide valuable insights into the intricate details and innovative ideas that shape The Arches. By examining these elements, one can gain a fuller appreciation of how this project not only addresses the current needs of its users but also sets a precedent for future architectural developments in urban environments like Dubai.
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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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