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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.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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