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Curvilinear Adobe Structures Featuring Traditional Windcatchers in Residential Design

Author:
Mona Diaiy Mohamed Hussein
Curvilinear Adobe Structures Featuring Traditional Windcatchers in Residential Design

Project in-detail

With its curvilinear adobe forms and traditional windcatchers, the design harmonizes modern living with environmental adaptability to create a sustainable family residence in the heart of the desert.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced adobe for thermal efficiency in arid conditions.
02
Incorporates traditional windcatchers for natural ventilation, reducing energy reliance.
03
Features distinct curvilinear forms that reflect the surrounding dune landscape.
04
Utilizes a warm, earth-toned color palette inspired by the desert environment.
05
Integrates indigenous plants in landscaping to minimize water usage and enhance biodiversity.

## Overview

Located in the Empty Quarter Desert, this architectural design integrates traditional Emirati cultural elements with contemporary architectural practices. The intent is to create a structure that reflects the region's heritage while accommodating modern living needs. The design incorporates significant features such as the wind catcher and traditional motifs, alongside a curated color palette that draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape.

## Spatial and Material Strategy

### Integration of Cultural and Environmental Contexts

The project's spatial organization and forms are influenced by the traditional Emirati tent, promoting an arrangement that enhances communal living and social interactions. The curvilinear walls and rooflines mimic the natural contours of the desert, fostering a relationship between the building and its environment. The design incorporates the wind catcher to improve natural ventilation, functioning as a practical solution while also serving as a cultural symbol of traditional architectural practices.

### Materials and Color Palette

The chosen materials reflect the area's cultural roots and environmental conditions. Adobe plaster, used in the construction, provides insulation and resonates with traditional building techniques typical of the region. Large glass windows facilitate natural light, ensuring a strong connection between indoors and outdoors. Stone and wood accents contribute warmth and texture. The color palette, characterized by warm earth tones and subtle complementary accents, mirrors the natural hues of the desert landscape, creating a cohesive visual experience that grounds the structure in its environment.

## Spatial Configuration and Outdoor Integration

### Floor Plan and Functionality

The ground floor consists of primary living spaces designed for accessibility and interaction, paired with a service area that maintains the functionality of the home without compromising privacy. The first floor is dedicated to private spaces, such as bedrooms, oriented to maximize views of the natural surroundings. Centralized circulation supports an efficient flow between rooms.

### Landscape and Outdoor Features

The landscaping includes gardens planted with indigenous species to enhance ecological sustainability and provide shaded areas for relaxation. Water features, including pools and fountains, not only echo the desert's vast expanses but also enrich the aesthetic value of the outdoor spaces, illustrating a thoughtful integration of nature with the architectural framework.

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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

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