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Curvilinear Design Enhanced By Wind Towers and Reinforced Concrete for Sustainable Living

Author:
Omar Abou Nada
Curvilinear Design Enhanced By Wind Towers and Reinforced Concrete for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Featuring a curvilinear form complemented by integrated wind towers and reinforced concrete, the design promotes passive ventilation and energy efficiency in a residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear design enhances solar gain management and passive cooling.
02
Integrated wind towers facilitate natural ventilation throughout the structure.
03
Reinforced concrete provides durability while allowing for unique geometries.
04
Ceramic tiles are used for both aesthetics and practical maintenance.
05
Strategic solar orientation optimizes energy use across seasons.

### Overview

Located in an urban setting, the project "The Formula" emphasizes sustainable architectural practices by integrating mathematical principles and organic forms into the design. The intent is to create an eco-friendly living environment that fosters a connection between urban architecture and the local ecosystem, addressing energy efficiency and occupant comfort through innovative solutions.

### Design Principles

#### Curvilinear Geometry and Environmental Integration

The project's most notable feature is its use of curvilinear geometry, which not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also functions to optimize energy management. Curved surfaces are strategically designed to redirect solar radiation, mitigating direct sunlight exposure during peak hours and, consequently, reducing cooling costs. This design approach promotes a harmonious relationship with the environment by limiting ecological footprints.

#### Passive Climate Control Strategies

A key innovation within this design is the incorporation of four wind towers that channel breezes into the interior spaces, enhancing natural ventilation and improving air quality while minimizing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. Additionally, strategically placed courtyards facilitate cross ventilation, creating microclimates that maintain comfort and support environmental adaptation. The careful orientation of the building components further maximizes solar gain in winter and minimizes it in summer, thereby optimizing energy consumption throughout the year.

### Material Selection and Performance

The choice of materials reflects a balance between durability and aesthetic qualities. Reinforced concrete forms the structural framework, while extensive glass elements enhance natural lighting and energy efficiency. Lightweight aluminum features provide decorative details without compromising structural integrity, and ceramic tiles contribute to the cultural aesthetic of the interiors while allowing for easy maintenance. The overall design philosophy emphasizes both functionality and a visual connection to the surrounding environment, aligning with sustainable architectural goals.

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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
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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