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Charred Wooden Shingles and Perforated Concrete Walls Define a Modern Courtyard Residence in Dubai

Author:
Amira Fatima Tinedeghar
Charred Wooden Shingles and Perforated Concrete Walls Define a Modern Courtyard Residence in Dubai

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and perforated concrete walls, this modern residence integrates private courtyards to enhance outdoor connectivity while providing essential family living spaces in the heart of Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a bent A-frame design that enhances airflow and natural light.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Features interconnected courtyards that promote outdoor living and community interaction.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels to reduce environmental impact and enhance structural integrity.
05
Integrates biophilic design elements to foster a connection with nature throughout the residence.
The project presents a contemporary residential design situated in Dubai, effectively merging traditional architectural elements with modern requirements. This design prioritizes functionality, community integration, and climatic responsiveness, making it suitable for the region’s unique environmental conditions. The layout revolves around a series of interconnected blocks surrounding central courtyards. These courtyard spaces not only enhance outdoor living opportunities but also provide privacy, a crucial aspect of social life in Dubai.

Efficient use of materials such as concrete, wood, glass, and clay integrates durability with aesthetic appeal, ensuring the structure withstands the harsh climate while aligning with cultural values. The concrete provides structural integrity and thermal mass, while wood adds warmth to the interiors, complementing the overall design approach.

The design emphasizes privacy and communicative spaces through its arrangement, fostering a harmonious living environment. Strategic positioning of courtyards facilitates natural ventilation and encourages social interaction, reinforcing community ties while respecting personal spaces.

Innovative Use of Space and Materials

One distinguishing feature of the project lies in its use of courtyards as focal points. These areas serve as extensions of living spaces, integrating nature into daily life. The inclusion of vegetative elements within the courtyards enhances not only aesthetic value but also improves cooling and air quality through natural processes. The roof terraces further extend the usability of the residential structure, providing outdoor areas for relaxation and recreation.

Moreover, the design incorporates sun-shading devices to mitigate heat gain without compromising views. This clever application of perforated concrete walls balances aesthetic design with functional necessity, allowing light to filter through while maintaining privacy.

Sustainability and Modern Living

The project exemplifies sustainability through its architectural strategies, focusing on natural ventilation and water management systems. The integration of water features in the courtyards serves dual purposes: cooling the environment and creating serene spaces within the home. The overall orientation of the building is carefully planned to optimize daylight usage, which reduces reliance on artificial lighting and minimizes energy consumption.

The residential layout also considers future flexibility. Designed with potential for adaptation, it allows inhabitants to modify the space as their needs evolve without compromising the core design. This foresight is essential in a rapidly growing urban environment, making the project relevant for years to come.

Explore the project presentation to discover detailed architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas that further illustrate how this residential design harmonizes traditional elements with contemporary living needs. Delve into the architectural designs that define this unique project and examine how it addresses both functional and aesthetic aspects effectively within its geographical context.
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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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