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Culturally Inspired Home Featuring Custom Mashrabiya and Sustainable Materials

Author:
Ahmad Khosravi
Culturally Inspired Home Featuring Custom Mashrabiya and Sustainable Materials

Project in-detail

Custom-designed mashrabiyas inspired by local heritage enhance privacy and light control in a structurally robust home that seamlessly integrates sustainable materials and contemporary living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Custom mashrabiyas inspired by local heritage enhance natural ventilation and light filtration.
02
High durability reinforced concrete forms the structure, ensuring long-term stability.
03
Interior layouts prioritize cultural gathering spaces while maintaining private areas.
04
Vertical gardens integrated into the design improve biodiversity and air quality.
05
Double-height living spaces create a sense of openness and connectivity with the landscape.
The Hubara House is a modern architectural project designed to maximize cultural relevance, sustainability, and spatial efficiency within a limited plot. This residential structure serves multiple functions, including private living quarters and communal areas, while adhering to the values of Emirati traditions. From its layout to its material selections, the design strives to create a harmonious balance between modern living and established cultural norms.

Spatial arrangements within the Hubara House have been meticulously developed to foster interaction while allowing for privacy. The three entrances facilitate seamless movement into different areas of the home, especially into social spaces such as the Majlis, which is intentionally separated from private living quarters. This thoughtful organization reflects a contemporary interpretation of traditional gathering spaces, further embedding cultural significance into the architectural framework.

Unique Aspects of the Design

The integration of architectural features that promote environmental awareness sets the Hubara House apart from common residential designs. The extensive use of mashrabiyas not only provides shade but also enhances privacy by filtering light and views. These decorative elements are inspired by the wings of the Hubara bird, infusing local identity into the project. Furthermore, the design incorporates double-height living areas, maximizing visual connectivity and natural lighting.

The use of sustainable materials is another critical element defining this project. Reinforced concrete forms the structural backbone of the house, ensuring durability. Glass façades create transparency, while metal accents contribute to both functionality and aesthetics. Additionally, the incorporation of vegetation within the design fosters biodiversity and atmospheric improvement, aligning with modern sustainability goals.

Architectural Features and Details

Key features of the Hubara House include a central mass with strategically placed voids for airflow and light penetration. The orientation of the house has been designed to take advantage of prevailing winds, enhancing natural ventilation. Landscaping elements, including integrated flower boxes and vertical gardens, not only add aesthetic appeal but also actively participate in climate control.

Interior spaces are characterized by a blend of openness and intimate settings. The arrangement and design of private and communal spaces reflect an understanding of family dynamics and social engagement. The master bedroom and additional rooms prioritize comfort while offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.

The Hubara House presents a thoughtful fusion of architecture, cultural sensitivity, and sustainability, creating a living environment that respects tradition while embracing modernity. For a comprehensive understanding of this architectural project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore further details related to this design.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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