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Clay Walls and Vertical Slats Create Sustainable Community Living

Authors:
Mohamed Sulaiman Haj Bakour, Michel Wassouf
Clay Walls and Vertical Slats Create Sustainable Community Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with clay walls and complemented by vertical wooden slats, this residence leverages sustainable materials to create a harmonious living space that balances modern comfort with cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with locally sourced clay, reducing environmental impact.
02
Incorporates a Maljis for social gatherings, reflecting local cultural practices.
03
Vertical wooden slats provide both sun shading and privacy without obstructing airflow.
04
Features a green roof that enhances insulation and promotes biodiversity.
05
Maximizes natural light through strategically placed large glass panels.

The "House of Clay" is an architectural project focused on sustainability and modern residential living. This single-family home integrates eco-friendly materials, a thoughtful layout, and contemporary design principles. The project is located in an ecologically sensitive environment, encouraging responsible living through its architectural solutions.

The design features three distinct spatial volumes, promoting both connectivity and function. The entrance is marked by vertical wooden slats, providing necessary privacy while allowing for ventilation. A large central area with expansive glass panels invites natural light and frames views of the surrounding landscape. The ground floor offers a cohesive living space that includes a living room, kitchen, dining area, and an office, while the first floor is reserved for private quarters.

Sustainability is at the core of the project's materiality. The primary building material is clay, which is renewable and has low environmental impact. Complementary materials include wood, concrete, cement, and steel, ensuring structural integrity while enhancing the building's aesthetic. The combination of these materials not only supports ecological initiatives but also contributes to the architectural character of the residence.

Unique Design Approaches

The architectural approach of the House of Clay emphasizes energy efficiency and environmental consciousness. It integrates solar panels and green roofs to reduce energy consumption and improve insulation. A design feature of significant importance is the use of vertical wooden slats on the façade, which not only add visual texture but also function as a sunshade, minimizing overheating and glare inside the home.

Another distinctive aspect is the incorporation of a Maljis, a traditional gathering space that fosters social interaction and reflects cultural heritage. This element integrates community living into the design, highlighting the importance of relationships within family and social groups.

Architectural Details

Internally, the design prioritizes fluidity and comfort. Open living spaces equipped with large windows and skylights promote natural lighting and fresh air circulation, enhancing the overall living experience. The interior aesthetic uses natural colors and textures aligned with the project's sustainable ethos.

The comprehensive design also includes functional aspects that maximize utility while minimizing environmental impact. Each spatial arrangement encourages interaction without compromising privacy, reflecting both modern and traditional values in architecture.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of the House of Clay, it is beneficial to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the thoughtful integration of sustainability within modern residential architecture. The project's design ideas represent a meaningful contribution to the evolving discourse on environmentally responsible living.

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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
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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