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Courtyards of Natural Ventilation Enhanced by Limestone and Wood Textures

Authors:
Aree Abdulla, Brxyaar Zahir, Xiakar Mahdi
Courtyards of Natural Ventilation Enhanced by Limestone and Wood Textures

Project in-detail

Defined by its innovative use of limestone and multiple courtyards that facilitate natural ventilation, the residence offers a harmonious blend of modern living and cultural relevance tailored for family dynamics in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates multiple courtyards for enhanced air circulation and outdoor connectivity.
02
Utilizes locally sourced limestone for both thermal efficiency and aesthetic consistency.
03
Design allows for future adaptability to accommodate changing family needs.
04
Features natural wood finishes that complement the surrounding landscape.
05
Integrates solar panels to support energy efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.

# Analytical Report: House of Courtyards

**Project Overview:**
Located in the Dubai Emirate, the House of Courtyards is designed as an individual residence within a larger residential complex, encompassing a 450 square meter plot. The intent behind this project is to integrate innovative spatial design with considerations for sustainability while reflecting both traditional and modern architectural elements tailored to the Emirati climate and lifestyle.

**Spatial Strategy:**
The layout features multiple interconnected spaces arranged around landscaped courtyards, which function as both aesthetic focal points and environmental solutions. This configuration fosters natural ventilation and cooling, improving indoor comfort during Dubai's hot climate. Communal areas such as living and dining rooms surround the central courtyard, promoting social interaction while maintaining individual privacy. The first floor is dedicated to private spaces, with each bedroom providing access to smaller courtyards, effectively enhancing the connection to the outdoors.

**Materials and Sustainability:**
Material selection plays a crucial role in balancing functionality with visual appeal. Key materials include reinforced concrete for structural integrity, limestone tiles for thermal mass and local character, and extensive use of glass to maximize natural light. Wood is featured in the facade and interior finishes, contributing warmth to the overall design. Additionally, sustainable features such as natural ventilation strategies, shading devices, and solar panels illustrate a commitment to energy efficiency. The project incorporates advanced construction techniques, enhancing textural diversity and aesthetic quality while allowing for future adaptability based on changing family needs.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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