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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Cooling in a Community-Centric Residence

Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Cooling in a Community-Centric Residence
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and local stone for sustainable design, this residence maximizes natural cooling and community interaction through its adaptable and multifunctional living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Natural cooling strategies reduce reliance on mechanical systems.
02
Multifunctional spaces adapt to varying resident needs.
03
Community gardens promote biodiversity and local engagement.
04
Local stone cladding enhances thermal performance and aesthetics.
05
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.

### Project Overview
Located in the rapidly urbanizing landscape of the UAE, the "Where is My House?" initiative offers a new perspective on residential design, emphasizing community connectivity, sustainability, and the integration of natural elements. The intent behind the design is to create housing solutions that enhance social interactions among residents while harmonizing with the surrounding environment.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality
The layout centers around a central courtyard that serves as a communal space, encouraging light penetration and natural air circulation throughout the home. Living areas are strategically oriented to optimize views of this courtyard, fostering a visual and physical connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Key functional areas—including a living room, kitchen, and bedrooms—are designed for versatility, accommodating diverse usage patterns while including features like a vegetable garden to support sustainability and self-sufficiency.

### Material Selection and Environmental Strategies
The design employs sustainable materials that enhance thermal efficiency.
- **Concrete** is used for its thermal mass properties, providing stability in varying temperatures.
- Expanses of **glass** allow for daylighting while maintaining energy efficiency.
- **Sand** is integrated into wall compositions to regulate interior temperatures, while **local stone** for cladding establishes a contextual relationship with the site.
- **Wood** accents in finishes contribute warmth and tactile diversity.

The architectural approach addresses local climatic conditions by incorporating natural ventilation strategies and shading devices that mitigate excessive solar gain, thereby enhancing thermal performance and reducing energy reliance. Native landscaping further supports ecological balance by minimizing irrigation needs and promoting biodiversity.

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Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

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Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

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Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026

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