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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Ventilation Define a Sustainable Family Residence

Author:
Ke Liu
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Ventilation Define a Sustainable Family Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a layout inspired by the Beijing Quadrangle, the design enhances natural ventilation and fosters community living in a sustainable family residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the Beijing Quadrangle, the layout promotes communal living while maintaining family privacy.
02
Constructed with charred wooden shingles, the design enhances durability and fire resistance.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength while reducing construction time.
04
Natural ventilation strategies maximize airflow, minimizing reliance on mechanical cooling.
05
Flexible spatial organization allows for adaptive use of areas as family needs evolve.
The architectural design project presents a contemporary housing solution in Dubai, integrating traditional Chinese architectural elements, particularly inspired by the Beijing Quadrangle. This project is specifically tailored to meet the needs of Emirati citizens while fostering a sense of community and cultural identity. By combining innovative design with practical functionality, the project aims to address both modern housing demands and the importance of traditional social structures.

This project represents a unique approach to residential architecture that prioritizes family dynamics and communal interaction. The layout emphasizes interconnected courtyards, facilitating both private and shared spaces. The architectural design utilizes prefabricated concrete panels and reinforced concrete, ensuring durability and ease of construction. Thermal insulation materials contribute to energy efficiency, making the homes more sustainable in the harsh climate of Dubai.

The courtyards serve as the project's focal points, allowing for social gatherings while maintaining a degree of privacy for family members. This layout is distinct from typical modern housing models, where private and communal spaces are often segregated. Instead, the design reflects an understanding of cultural frameworks, promoting interactions between extended family members and neighbors, thus supporting a community-oriented lifestyle.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the defining elements of this project is the adaptation of traditional Eastern architectural sensibilities within a modern context. The layout encourages flexibility and adaptability, allowing homeowners to modify their spaces over time. This contrasts with conventional designs that often impose static boundaries on living areas. The incorporation of "Chaoshou" verandas creates transitional spaces that facilitate movement and interaction among residents.

The design also incorporates natural ventilation strategies by strategically placing windows to maximize cross-ventilation, reducing dependence on artificial cooling systems. This attention to environmental factors aligns with Dubai’s broader initiatives for sustainable urban living.

Functional Aspects and Spatial Organization

The architectural planning segregates areas based on functionality while promoting integration through communal courtyards. Private quarters are designed for immediate family use, carefully distancing them from guest accommodations and communal gathering areas. External access points encourage neighborhood interaction, fostering a cohesive community within a diverse urban setting.

The project’s materiality focuses on durability with prefabricated components, ensuring a quicker assembly process without compromising quality. Waterproof layers, vapor barriers, and innovative surface finishes enhance the building’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.

For those interested in the intricacies of this architectural design project, further exploration into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas will offer valuable insights into its innovative approaches and thoughtful execution. Engage with the complete project presentation to discover more about the unique aspects and design principles that define this housing project in 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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