Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs in a Sustainable Family Residence

Author:
Ruchi Chowdhary
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs in a Sustainable Family Residence

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop a residence crowned with a lush green roof, combining heritage elements with contemporary sustainability to create a comfortable family home in the heart of Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
The residence incorporates traditional mashrabiya screens for enhanced ventilation and privacy while maintaining cultural significance.
02
A distinctive wind tower is integrated into the design, utilizing natural airflow for passive cooling without relying on mechanical systems.
03
The green roof not only provides insulation but also fosters biodiversity by supporting native plant species in an urban setting.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels are used throughout the structure, promoting sustainability while offering aesthetic warmth and durability.
05
A carefully arranged outdoor space encourages communal gatherings, reflecting the essence of Emirati social life within a modern framework.
The project under analysis is a contemporary residential design located in Dubai, reflecting a balanced blend of traditional and modern architectural elements. This house serves as a testament to the evolving character of the urban environment while ensuring functionality, sustainability, and an adherence to cultural roots. The architecture offers a harmonious living space, designed to meet the demands of modern life while honoring the rich heritage of its locale.

At its core, the project represents a duality of influences, marrying the essence of traditional Emirati architecture with modern design principles. Featuring characteristics such as arches, intricate mashrabiya screens, and spacious indoor/outdoor areas, the house functions not just as a dwelling but as a social hub where community interaction is encouraged, mirroring the communal values intrinsic to Emirati culture.

Key components of the design include a thoughtfully curated façade that seamlessly integrates expansive glass windows, permitting natural light to penetrate throughout the space while promoting transparency and connection with the exterior environment. This focus on light and openness is further enhanced by the incorporation of a wind tower, a historical cooling element that symbolizes the region's architectural heritage. This design choice speaks volumes about the intention to create a climate-responsive home that avoids reliance on artificial cooling systems, thereby fostering sustainability.

The project also features a green roof, illustrating a commitment to eco-friendly design practices. This not only provides insulation and reduces energy consumption but also creates a visually appealing landscape that enhances the overall architecture. Material selection plays a critical role in the project’s identity, with concrete blocks forming the structural backbone combined with rendered finishes and wooden cladding that add warmth and texture, creating a visual contrast that enriches the overall design narrative.

Inside, the layout emphasizes openness and fluidity, with an open concept design connecting the living, dining, and kitchen areas for ease of movement and interaction among occupants. This design fosters a sense of community, reflecting the social lifestyle of modern families in Dubai. The strategic placement of balconies and rooftop access points allows residents to enjoy outdoor amenities while being situated within an urban environment.

Sustainability is interwoven throughout the design, from the use of solar panels to the implementation of a hydro-power system. These innovative features highlight the commitment to energy efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint of the residence, making it a model for future architectural endeavors.

The architectural plans and sections reveal meticulous attention to detail, showcasing how spatial arrangement has been tailored to enhance both comfort and aesthetic appeal. The architectural designs present a forward-thinking approach that considers not only the present but also the future implications of sustainable living within an urban context.

Through this analysis, it becomes clear that the project is more than just a residential structure; it is a carefully crafted environment that promotes a balance between cultural heritage and contemporary lifestyle. The unique design approaches implemented in this house challenge conventional norms while remaining deeply rooted in the architectural identity of Dubai.

For those interested in delving deeper into the intricacies of this project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will offer comprehensive insights into the innovative ideas and execution that define this remarkable residence.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy