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Clay Brick Structures Enhanced by Photovoltaics for Sustainable Residential Living

Author:
Joseph Ingea
Clay Brick Structures Enhanced by Photovoltaics for Sustainable Residential Living

Project in-detail

Clay brick walls and integrated photovoltaic systems create a sustainable living environment that honors local traditions while providing a modern residential experience in Dubai's urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of locally sourced clay bricks enhances thermal performance while reflecting traditional construction methods.
02
Integrated hydroponic systems on the roof improve water management and provide sustainable food options.
03
Solar panels are strategically positioned to maximize energy efficiency and reduce reliance on the grid.
04
The layout incorporates communal spaces that foster neighborhood connections and social interactions among residents.
05
Landscaping features native plants specifically selected for low water requirements, promoting ecological sustainability.
The architectural project under analysis is a contemporary residential design that emphasizes sustainability while paying homage to traditional Arabian Gulf architecture. Situated in Dubai, a city marked by rapid urban expansion and significant environmental challenges, this project encapsulates a vision that blends cultural heritage with modern living. It presents itself not merely as a home but as a prototype for future sustainable dwellings that can adapt to the complexities of urban life in a hot climate.

At its core, this project represents a harmonious marriage between the past and the present, seeking to enhance communal living while ensuring minimal environmental impact. The design aims to create an environment where natural elements and modern amenities coexist, providing residents with comfort and functionality.

The design features an innovative structure characterized by a multi-layered roof that serves both aesthetic and practical purposes. This roof design provides shade, which is crucial in Dubai’s arid climate, thereby reducing the reliance on mechanical cooling systems. The use of terracotta-colored clay bricks not only aligns with traditional vernacular architecture but also contributes to the building's thermal efficiency, helping maintain a stable indoor climate. Additionally, the incorporation of photovoltaic panels on the roof underscores a commitment to renewable energy sources, making the home self-sufficient in terms of electricity needs.

Water conservation is a significant concern in arid regions, and this project incorporates various strategies to address it. Advanced water management systems are designed for rainwater harvesting and irrigation, utilizing hydroponic systems integrated into the roof to optimize water use. The landscaping includes native plant species that are adapted to the local climate, further enhancing the project’s sustainability by minimizing the need for extensive irrigation.

Interior spaces within the residence are designed with an open floor plan, allowing for a seamless flow between rooms. Expansive windows frame views of the surrounding landscape, inviting natural light indoors and blurring the boundaries between the interior and the exterior. The focus on natural materials throughout the interior design promotes not only sustainability but also supports local craftsmanship, ensuring that the space feels connected to its cultural roots.

Unique design approaches are evident in every aspect of the project. From the architectural layout that encourages community interaction to the careful selection of materials rooted in local traditions, each element has been considered to foster a sense of place and belonging. The project also explores communal infrastructure by creating clusters of homes that share energy resources, further enhancing social ties among residents.

By integrating traditional elements with modern technology, this architectural design serves as a thoughtful response to contemporary needs while respecting the cultural context of its location. The project challenges conventional notions of residential architecture in Dubai by showcasing how design can be both functional and reflective of cultural heritage.

Readers interested in exploring this project more thoroughly are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain deeper insights into the innovative ideas that inform this remarkable endeavor. There is much to discover in how this project intertwines sustainability with design, providing a valuable reference for future architectural developments.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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