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Charred Wooden Shingles and High-Density Wood Create Sustainable Living Spaces in Urban Context

Author:
Filippo Catalfamo
Charred Wooden Shingles and High-Density Wood Create Sustainable Living Spaces in Urban Context

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and high-density wood within a thoughtfully designed courtyard layout, the residence seamlessly marries traditional influences with modern sustainability to create a comfortable urban living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to achieve sustainable structural performance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Includes a dedicated private courtyard fostering community interaction while ensuring privacy.
05
Integrates traditional wind tower elements for passive cooling in a modern context.
The Dynamic House is an architectural project situated in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, that blends traditional Middle Eastern sensibilities with modern design principles. This house is a thoughtful exploration of cultural identity, aiming to foster community and individualism through its spatial organization and materiality. The project represents a dialogue between the historical influences that shape the region's architectural narrative and the contemporary demands of urban living.

With an emphasis on functionality, the Dynamic House is designed to accommodate various activities and interactions within its layout. The architecture encourages a seamless transition between public and private spaces, featuring distinct courts that promote both communal gatherings and personal retreats. This balance is crucial in a modern context, where social connections are increasingly valued alongside privacy and comfort.

The design incorporates important elements that contribute to its overarching concept. The ground floor features an open living area that connects to outdoor spaces, enabling natural light and air circulation to permeate the interiors. This intentional layout enhances the livability of the home, inviting occupants to engage with their surroundings.

The upper levels house private areas such as bedrooms and secluded lounges, designed to provide a peaceful ambiance. Each of these spaces is equipped with en-suite facilities, ensuring comfort and privacy for individuals and families. The adaptability of these spaces allows for various functions over time, accommodating changing needs of the inhabitants.

One of the most notable aspects of the Dynamic House is its use of materials. High-density wood is selected for its sustainability and aesthetic qualities, while reinforced concrete provides necessary structural support. Large glass panels are integrated thoughtfully into the design to foster a connection with the outdoors, minimizing boundaries between inside and outside. Steel elements contribute not only to the structural integrity but also serve as an expressive design component that enhances the overall architectural language.

The project incorporates a ventilated facade system, which serves a dual purpose: reducing solar heat gain while improving indoor comfort. This feature is particularly relevant in the hot climate of Dubai, where thermal efficiency is paramount. Additionally, the incorporation of traditional wind tower concepts reimagines historical cooling techniques, illustrating a respect for local architectural heritage while adapting to modern requirements.

The Dynamic House also emphasizes sustainability. It features solar panels and a high-efficiency thermal envelope, addressing energy consumption in a minimalist, functional manner. This commitment to sustainability not only fosters environmental responsibility but also represents a forward-thinking approach to contemporary living.

In its essence, the Dynamic House exemplifies how architecture can reflect cultural narratives while adapting to modern needs. It stands as a significant example of how traditional elements can be reinterpreted to create functional and aesthetically pleasing living spaces. The design honors its context and heritage, serving as an innovative model for future housing projects in similar climatic and cultural landscapes.

Readers interested in deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas behind the Dynamic House are encouraged to explore the project presentation in greater detail, offering a comprehensive look at this unique architectural endeavor.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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