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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.

# Architectural Design Analysis Report

## Project Overview

Located in Dubai, this residential design integrates the region's climatic characteristics and cultural values into a modern context. The intent is to create a living environment that honors traditional principles while meeting the demands of contemporary life. The design focuses on privacy and community, reflecting local architectural heritage through its emphasis on spatial introversion.

## Cultural Context and Spatial Strategy

The design builds upon the rich architectural legacy of Dubai, which has been shaped by influences from Iranian, Indian, and Islamic traditions. It addresses the challenges posed by the hot and humid climate through innovative construction techniques and material choices. By drawing inspiration from traditional courtyard-style homes, the layout is structured around interconnected blocks that foster a sense of community while preserving individual privacy. Central courtyards enhance air circulation and provide outdoor gathering spaces, facilitating a smooth transition from public to private domains.

## Materiality and Environmental Considerations

The material selection for the project is aligned with both aesthetic and climatic requirements. Concrete serves as the primary structural component, offering durability and thermal stability. Wood is utilized in key aspects, such as roof overhangs and interior finishes, contributing to insulation and visual warmth. Extensive use of glass optimizes natural light and visual connectivity with the outdoors, while traditional clay and plaster are employed on façades to echo local building practices. Additionally, a strategic integration of greenery contributes to biophilic design principles, promoting environmental benefits through enhanced cooling and connection to nature.

Innovative features enhance sustainability and user experience: natural ventilation is achieved through strategic window placement, promoting airflow and reducing the need for mechanical cooling systems. Water features in courtyards assist in humidity control, and energy efficiency is optimized by maximizing daylight to lessen artificial lighting reliance. The design also accommodates future expansion, allowing for modifications without compromising its functional or aesthetic qualities.

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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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