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Diamond Courtyard Surrounded by Low-Iron Glass and Limestone in a Sustainable Residential Villa

Authors:
Yasmin Helmy, Louna Jalanbo
Diamond Courtyard Surrounded by Low-Iron Glass and Limestone in a Sustainable Residential Villa

Project in-detail

A diamond-shaped courtyard integrates natural ventilation and light within a residential villa constructed of local limestone and low-iron glass, creating a contemporary living space that respects cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
A diamond-shaped courtyard enhances light distribution throughout the villa.
02
The design incorporates low-iron glass to maximize transparency while reducing glare.
03
Local limestone is used for its thermal efficiency and cultural significance.
04
Adaptive terraces facilitate outdoor living and promote community engagement.
05
Natural ventilation strategies minimize reliance on mechanical cooling systems.
The Al-Mirqab villa is an architectural project situated in the United Arab Emirates, designed to integrate traditional Emirati culture with modern architectural principles. The villa represents a blend of cultural heritage and contemporary living, creating a functional residential space that respects local environmental conditions and community values.

The architectural design features a staggered arrangement of volumes, creating a dynamic form that interacts with light and space. The central courtyard serves as a focal point that allows natural light to permeate the interiors, reinforcing a connection between indoor and outdoor environments. This design decision not only enhances aesthetic values but also plays a crucial role in climate-responsive architecture, facilitating natural ventilation and contributing to energy efficiency.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinguishing characteristics of the Al-Mirqab villa is the incorporation of angular geometries and a diamond-shaped courtyard that acts as the heart of the design. This approach diverges from traditional rectangular layouts commonly found in residential architecture, providing functional outdoor space while promoting privacy and community interaction through extensive openings. The use of local limestone and net-zero CO2 concrete underscores a commitment to sustainable building practices that minimize the environmental impact.

The design also features terraces that extend outward, reflecting the local culture of hospitality. These terraces are integral for social gatherings, allowing for seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor activities. The layout of the villa is mindful of privacy concerns, with strategically placed bedroom suites on elevated levels, ensuring comfort without sacrificing the openness of communal areas.

Materiality and Environmental Considerations

The material selection for the Al-Mirqab project distinguishes it from typical residential constructions. The combination of low-iron reflective glass, local plants, and organic finishes creates a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape. This material palette not only provides visual coherence but also enhances the villa's energy performance.

Sustainability plays a vital role in the design, with features like solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems contributing to the project's environmental efficiency. These aspects reflect an understanding of the climatic challenges in the region, ensuring long-term usability and minimal resource consumption.

For those interested in a deeper analysis, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design details will provide further insights into the innovative solutions employed in the Al-Mirqab villa. Engaging with these elements will illustrate how the project effectively combines cultural significance with modern architectural form.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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