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Curved Clay Walls and Natural Ventilation in a Family-Centric Desert Home

Author:
Ramón Villegas
Curved Clay Walls and Natural Ventilation in a Family-Centric Desert Home

Project in-detail

Curved clay walls and a central interior garden create a naturally ventilated oasis designed for family living within the harsh desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved clay walls provide thermal insulation while complementing the regional aesthetic.
02
An interior garden enhances air quality and family interaction within the home.
03
The design integrates natural ventilation systems optimized for desert airflow.
04
Large glass windows are strategically placed to maximize light without sacrificing privacy.
05
The layout prioritizes communal spaces while maintaining distinct private areas for family members.
The Mudejar Maskan project is an architectural design that fuses traditional Islamic design elements with contemporary functionalities, tailored for a desert climate. This residential project emphasizes family-oriented living, forming a spatial configuration that promotes interaction while respecting the natural environment. The design incorporates a central patio, a hallmark of traditional Islamic architecture, which serves as a communal space for leisure and relaxation.

The core function of Mudejar Maskan is to provide a comfortable and functional living space for a family. The layout supports multiple activities and relationships within the household, seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor areas. The choice of materials and architectural forms is instrumental in addressing the environmental challenges of the desert, ensuring energy efficiency and thermal comfort.

The design features double-curved walls, a technique employed to create a cohesive thermal envelope. These walls enhance structural stability and mitigate heat absorption, a crucial aspect in hot climates. The architecture employs reinforced concrete and clay, balancing durability with temperature regulation. Large windows made of glass facilitate natural light, enhancing the internal ambiance while maintaining privacy through strategic placement.

One unique aspect of the Mudejar Maskan project is its atmospheric enclosure. The rounded walls and multi-level structure not only provide aesthetic complexity but also enhance airflow, contributing to a cooler environment. The integration of natural ventilation systems allows for efficient cross-breezing, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere indoors without heavy reliance on mechanical cooling.

The interior garden or patio plays a significant role in this design. This green space acts as a central point for family gatherings, facilitating a connection with nature and improving air quality within the home. The project's adaptability to the surrounding environment showcases a commitment to sustainability, reflecting a responsible approach to modern architecture.

The Mudejar Maskan project stands out for its blend of traditional elements and modern architectural practices. The balance of communal and private spaces, coupled with a focus on environmental responsiveness, demonstrates innovative thinking in residential design. The attention to materiality, spatial arrangement, and natural integration respond effectively to both cultural and climatic demands.

For those interested in deeper insights into Mudejar Maskan, examining the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide a clearer understanding of the project's nuances and transformative approach to contemporary living. Explore the project presentation for a comprehensive look at these architectural ideas.
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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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