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Chilled Terraces and Sustainable Stone: A Cultural Residence Enveloped in Local Materials

Authors:
Omar Lamrani Alaoui, Reda Bekkali
Chilled Terraces and Sustainable Stone: A Cultural Residence Enveloped in Local Materials

Project in-detail

Crafted from local stone and wood, the dwelling integrates cultural motifs and sustainable practices, creating dedicated spaces for both privacy and hospitality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes low-carbon local materials to blend modern design with traditional Emirati architecture.
02
Incorporates cross-ventilation techniques to reduce energy reliance and enhance indoor air quality.
03
Features outdoor terraces from the first floor, promoting private outdoor living spaces.
04
Integrates patterned screens that provide thermal comfort while maintaining visual privacy.
05
Employs a greywater recycling system to support sustainable landscaping practices.
The Heritage Horizon House is an architectural design project situated in the United Arab Emirates, integrating modern building practices with traditional Emirati cultural elements. The design emphasizes a bioclimatic approach, focusing on environmental sustainability while creating adaptable living spaces. The core philosophy involves segmenting the architecture into distinct areas: guest flow, resident flow, and service flow, ultimately enhancing privacy for residents while accommodating social interactions.

Design Approach and Cultural Integration

The unique aspect of the Heritage Horizon House lies in its thoughtful integration of traditional design motifs with contemporary architectural solutions. The project employs local materials, such as stone and wood, emphasizing sustainability and contextual relevance. Geometric patterns commonly found in Emirati architecture subtly influence the design, maintaining cultural ties while presenting a modern aesthetic. This approach promotes a dialogue between heritage and innovation, ensuring that the structure remains relevant to today’s living conditions.

The architectural layout is meticulously planned to facilitate different functions within the home. The ground floor comprises communal areas, including living rooms and kitchens, designed for seamless interaction with outdoor gardens. The first floor features private bedrooms with outdoor terraces, aligning with the tenet of personal space. The project also utilizes basement levels for utility purposes, ensuring the primary living spaces remain uncluttered and functional.

Sustainability Strategies and Environmental Responsiveness

Incorporating sustainability is a fundamental characteristic of the Heritage Horizon House. The architectural design utilizes passive cooling systems and cross ventilation to enhance natural airflow. This minimizes reliance on mechanical systems while improving indoor air quality. The structure employs greywater recycling systems for irrigation, demonstrating a commitment to resource conservation.

Key elements in the facade design include cantilevered roofs and patterned screens that provide shade while allowing natural light to filter through. These design strategies are integral in maintaining thermal comfort throughout the year. The landscaping integrates native plants, supporting local ecology and further reinforcing the project's connection to its environment.

The Heritage Horizon House exemplifies a harmonious balance between architectural innovation and cultural sensitivity. Its design principles reflect an understanding of both traditional and modern living requirements. Readers interested in understanding the project's fine details, such as architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, are encouraged to explore the complete presentation for a comprehensive overview of this architectural endeavor.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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