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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Ventilation in a Contemporary Emirati Residence

Author:
Ralph Denish Agno
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Ventilation in a Contemporary Emirati Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and traditional windcatchers, this contemporary Emirati residence enhances natural ventilation and privacy while providing a multifunctional living space for families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes traditional windcatchers for passive cooling and airflow.
02
Incorporates sustainable charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability.
03
Features a central courtyard designed for family gatherings and social interaction.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and warmth.
05
Integrates native landscaping to promote ecological diversity and low maintenance.

# Analytical Report: Emirati House of the Future

## Overview
The Emirati House of the Future is situated in a high-density urban environment, where it serves to bridge traditional Emirati cultural values with contemporary architectural solutions. The design is rooted in an understanding of the local climate, cultural norms, and social dynamics, offering a residential setup that is both functional and reflective of the region's heritage.

## Cultural Integration and Spatial Strategy
The architecture incorporates key characteristics of Emirati design, emphasizing privacy and community through efficient spatial organization. Central to the layout are courtyards, which facilitate family gatherings and outdoor activities while serving as a functional climate moderation feature through natural ventilation. Traditional elements, such as wind towers, are engineered to function as passive cooling systems, effectively reducing reliance on mechanical air conditioning. Perforated privacy screens enhance resident comfort by allowing light and airflow, while also echoing the intricate motifs found in traditional Emirati textiles.

## Materiality and Sustainability
The project employs a diverse range of materials that highlight both modern construction techniques and traditional craftsmanship. Concrete provides structural integrity, while wood is used for decorative elements that showcase artisanal skills. Expansive glass facades are integrated to maximize natural light and blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. Ceramic tiles are used for their thermal regulation properties. The landscaping features native plants, which require minimal maintenance and enrich the environment, incorporating elements such as fruit trees and herbal shrubs that support sustainable living practices.

The house’s orientation and high ceilings are tailored to optimize thermal comfort while addressing climatic challenges. This commitment to sustainable design principles is further reflected in the incorporation of smart home technologies, enhancing energy efficiency and contributing to a modern living experience that respects and preserves cultural identity.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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