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Cross-Laminated Timber and Wind Catchers Enhance Sustainable Community Living

Author:
Reza Motlaghzadeh
Cross-Laminated Timber and Wind Catchers Enhance Sustainable Community Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and traditional wind catchers, the design enhances natural ventilation and community interaction within a modern residential complex in the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes traditional wind catchers for natural ventilation.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
04
Integrates communal gardens to foster community interaction.
05
Employs a circular layout to promote neighborly engagement.
The architectural design project presented is an innovative residential complex situated within the urban landscape of the UAE. This project is characterized by its modern approach to sustainable living, while integrating traditional architectural elements specific to the region. The layout consists of a series of interconnected homes that prioritize community interaction and environmental performance.

The design features a circular configuration that enhances social engagement among residents, fostering a sense of community. The project emphasizes a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, promoting both privacy and natural ventilation. Wind catchers, a nod to traditional Middle Eastern architecture, provide passive cooling and represent the project's focus on energy efficiency. The use of durable materials such as concrete, glass, timber, steel, and stone tiles contributes to the project's longevity and aesthetic appeal.

Unique Design Elements

Several distinctive design approaches set this project apart from conventional residential complexes. The incorporation of wind catchers not only aligns with the environmental demands of the region but also serves to reduce energy consumption significantly. This traditional feature merges with modern techniques to optimize thermal comfort without relying heavily on mechanical systems.

Additionally, the spatial organization promotes flexibility. Each housing unit is designed to adapt to various living arrangements and functions, allowing residents to customize their spaces according to personal needs. The extensive use of communal gardens, shaded pathways, and water features enhances the outdoor living experience, encouraging residents to engage with their surroundings. This focus on communal spaces contrasts with the typical design trends, which often overlook social interaction in favor of maximizing individual private areas.

Functionality and Community Integration

The project successfully balances aesthetic considerations with practical needs. The living areas are designed to be adaptable and multifunctional, catering to different social gatherings and family dynamics. Architectural sections illustrate the thoughtful placement of windows and doors, maximizing natural light while ensuring privacy.

The materials selected for the project enhance its functionality. Concrete provides stability and durability, while glass elements contribute to a sense of openness and connection to the landscape. Timber accents offer warmth and texture, enriching the sensory experience of the living environment. The integration of sustainable landscaping not only contributes to the aesthetic quality of the development but also supports local biodiversity and mitigates the heat island effect, reinforcing the project's commitment to ecological responsibility.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas employed in this project, please explore the full project presentation. This will provide comprehensive insights into the architectural strategies and community-oriented solutions that define this residential complex.
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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
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