Get inspired!

17,495 architecture projects

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

Courtyard Design Featuring Arched Roofs And Natural Ventilation Through Windcatchers

Authors:
Yat Hang Wu, Tsun Yi Lam, Yueyang Li
Courtyard Design Featuring Arched Roofs And Natural Ventilation Through Windcatchers

Project in-detail

An arched roof structure enhances natural ventilation through integrated windcatchers, while the central courtyard fosters community interaction, creating an adaptable family residence that harmonizes with local traditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central courtyard promotes family interaction and community gatherings.
02
Arched roofs enhance air circulation while maintaining cultural aesthetics.
03
Integrated windcatchers provide effective natural ventilation and cooling.
04
Modular design allows for future expansion based on family needs.
05
Charred wooden shingles contribute to fire resistance and sustainability.
The Family Village project represents a thoughtful integration of traditional Emirati architectural elements and modern design principles. It is structured around a central courtyard that fosters community interaction while providing a functional living space for families. The design emphasizes social cohesion and the importance of shared spaces, presenting a model for residential living that is both contemporary and culturally resonant.

Central to the Family Village is its spatial organization, which features distinct zones for communal and private activities. The central courtyard serves as the heart of the home, designed for outdoor gatherings and social interaction, allowing family members to connect with one another in a shared environment. Surrounding this courtyard are essential functions such as living rooms and majlis, which are intentionally placed to ensure easy access while maintaining a sense of privacy.

The architectural approach includes a variety of unique design features that distinguish this project from similar residential designs. The use of arched roofs not only reflects traditional forms within regional architecture but also enhances spatial volumes, creating a connection to the outdoors while filtering natural light into living areas. The design accommodates modular expansions, making it appropriate for varying family sizes and functions. This flexibility supports the evolving needs of residents, enabling spaces to be repurposed for larger gatherings during festive occasions.

Environmental sustainability is a key component of the project’s design philosophy. The introduction of wind catchers helps facilitate natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. Additionally, the implementation of a rainwater harvesting system demonstrates a commitment to responsible resource management, providing a practical solution to water conservation in an arid climate.

The selection of materials plays a significant role in reinforcing the project’s connection to the local context. The use of concrete for structural elements reflects a blend of durability and traditional aesthetics, while wood finishes add warmth and a tactile quality to interior spaces. The incorporation of retractable fabric canopies demonstrates an innovative response to climatic challenges, allowing for adaptable shading and additional outdoor comfort.

The Family Village represents a balanced approach to modern living that prioritizes community engagement while drawing upon the cultural heritage of the region. For those interested in a deeper understanding of the project’s architectural elements, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs, further exploration of the project presentation is encouraged.
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 17,495 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