Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Clay Panels and Wind Catchers in a Self-Sufficient Residential Environment

Authors:
Ahmad Al Hajja, Mohammed Nouri Alshallah
Clay Panels and Wind Catchers in a Self-Sufficient Residential Environment

Project in-detail

Combining clay panels and wind catchers for passive cooling, this self-sufficient residence integrates sustainable materials and innovative water management to create a functional living space in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes clay panels for enhanced thermal performance and durability.
02
Incorporates wind catchers for passive cooling and improved ventilation.
03
Features integrated crop gardens to promote local food production.
04
Employs a modular design for future expansion without extensive renovations.
05
Integrates an advanced water management system for self-sufficiency.
The architectural project titled "The Future House from the Earth" exemplifies a thoughtful integration of sustainable design principles and contemporary residential needs. This project is characterized by a compact footprint of 30 by 15 meters, emphasizing efficiency in space utilization while incorporating essential elements for modern living. Designed with a vision that merges ecological awareness with urban requirements, this residence illustrates how architecture can adapt to and enhance its environment.

Sustainability and functionality are at the heart of the design, which aims to produce a net-zero energy output, meaning the house generates as much energy as it consumes. The implementation of solar panels supports this goal, alongside innovative water management systems that utilize both wastewater recycling and rainwater harvesting. The modular layout allows flexibility in usage, accommodating different family structures and evolving needs without major alterations to the base architecture.

Unique Design Approaches

The project incorporates various unique design elements that distinguish it from typical residential designs. The use of concrete clay and clamp brick offers improved thermal performance and durability, which are critical in reducing energy demand throughout the seasonal changes. The application of clay boards, which serve as a sustainable alternative to conventional drywall, enhances sound insulation and contributes to the overall ecological impact of the building.

Architectural features such as wind catchers are ingeniously integrated into the design. These structures facilitate passive cooling by allowing natural breezes to circulate within the home while expelling stagnant air, ultimately minimizing the reliance on mechanical ventilation systems. The incorporation of green spaces through interior courtyards and exterior gardens promotes biodiversity and provides the inhabitants with local food production opportunities.

Functional Design Elements

Important functional aspects of this project include its zoning layout, which is strategically divided into communal and private areas. This separation enhances the livability of the space by fostering both social interaction and individual privacy. Large openings in the facade optimize natural light penetration, promoting a healthier indoor environment and reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Additional layers of functionality are realized in the comprehensive water management system that supports the house’s self-sufficiency for up to 20 days. This aspect ensures that the residents can maintain a specific level of autonomy, making the house particularly suited to modern lifestyles that value sustainable living.

The architectural design of "The Future House from the Earth" clearly demonstrates a forward-thinking approach, with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and social responsiveness. For a deeper understanding of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project's presentation for further insights into its innovative attributes and technical specifications.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy