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Circular Design Featuring Evaporative Cooling and Ceramic Accents in a Family-Focused Environment

Authors:
Nicol Yamin Badour, Salem Shamia
Circular Design Featuring Evaporative Cooling and Ceramic Accents in a Family-Focused Environment

Project in-detail

Utilizing a circular layout complemented by evaporative cooling techniques and ceramic accents, the design fosters a harmonious indoor-outdoor experience tailored for contemporary family living in the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes evaporative cooling techniques to maintain comfortable outdoor areas in a hot climate.
02
Features gender-segregated Majlis designed for traditional social gatherings.
03
Incorporates a circular family space that integrates indoor and outdoor views.
04
Uses extensive glass facades to enhance natural light and visual connectivity.
05
Includes a green roof that promotes environmental sustainability and biodiversity.
The Koun project represents a sophisticated interpretation of residential architecture tailored to the cultural and environmental context of the United Arab Emirates. This architectural design integrates multifunctional spaces that accommodate contemporary living, working, and communal interactions. Koun is structured to enhance the residents' lifestyle by creating a synergy between indoor comfort and outdoor connections.

The layout is characterized by three principal levels, each designed for specific functions. The basement includes functional areas such as a main kitchen and dining spaces, focusing on practicality. The ground floor houses gender-segregated Majlis, a library workspace, and access to landscaped gardens, promoting socialization and family experiences. The first floor is dedicated to private family quarters, featuring bedrooms and communal living spaces that encourage family interaction while ensuring privacy.

Key Design Features

What sets Koun apart from other residential designs lies in its incorporation of advanced climate-responsive strategies. The project utilizes evaporative cooling techniques to create comfortable outdoor areas, addressing the challenges posed by the UAE's hot climate. Additionally, the integration of natural landscapes through gardens and green roofs demonstrates a commitment to ecological sustainability. These features not only enhance the aesthetic value of the architecture but also support environmental stewardship.

The architectural form itself showcases a fluid layout with distinct yet interconnected spaces, often highlighted by extensive glass elements that facilitate natural light and visual connections to the outdoors. The circular configuration of the family space serves as a pivotal design element, providing unobstructed views of the central garden and fostering a harmonious relationship between occupants and their environment.

Materials and Construction

Koun employs a thoughtful selection of materials that ensures structural integrity while paying homage to local traditions. Concrete serves as the primary structural material, paired with extensive glass facades allowing for light penetration. Reinforced steel is utilized strategically to support innovative design concepts, while ceramic accents link to the heritage of Emirati architecture. This combination of materials not only reinforces the aesthetic appeal of the project but also contributes to its durability and functionality.

For those interested in architectural plans, sections, and designs, further exploration of the Koun project provides valuable insights into its unique approach to contemporary residential architecture. The thoughtful integration of community-centric spaces, climate adaptability, and material choices exemplifies a robust understanding of modern needs in the context of traditional values.
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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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