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Dual-Facade Design Utilizing Clay Brick and Glass in a Climate-Responsive Residential Framework

Author:
Iman Ataee
Dual-Facade Design Utilizing Clay Brick and Glass in a Climate-Responsive Residential Framework

Project in-detail

Employing a dual-facade design with a focus on clay brick and glass, this residence enhances climate resilience while providing distinct spatial experiences tailored for modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a dual-facade system to optimize natural ventilation and light.
02
Incorporates a central courtyard that enhances privacy and communal interaction.
03
Employs clay brick for thermal mass, improving energy efficiency.
04
Integrates a photosynthesis reservoir for humidity control and water retention.
05
Features geometric shading patterns that reflect traditional Islamic motifs.

### Overview

Located in Dubai, this residential architectural design project integrates Islamic architectural principles with modern sustainability practices, resulting in a living environment that is both functional and contextually relevant. The structure is designed to prioritize the needs of its inhabitants, creating a balance of communal and private spaces while emphasizing environmental consciousness.

### Spatial Configuration

The project features a thoughtfully organized layout centered around a central courtyard, a key element in Islamic architecture. This courtyard facilitates natural light and ventilation, minimizing the need for artificial energy sources. The design delineates public, private, and service areas: the public zone includes communal spaces such as the living room and kitchen; the private zone encompasses sleeping and personal areas; and the service zone houses utility spaces strategically placed to ensure minimal disruption to daily life. This careful arrangement fosters both social interaction and individual privacy.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A range of materials has been employed to enhance both the aesthetic and functional qualities of the building. Concrete blocks offer structural durability, while clay bricks in the facades provide thermal mass for temperature regulation. Large glass windows ensure adequate natural illumination, and steel frames support expansive open spaces. Decorative panels serve to enhance thermal performance and visual appeal.

The design incorporates a two-shelled façade that regulates temperature and airflow, enhanced by a smart automation system that allows users to control air and light. Additionally, the innovative photosynthesis reservoir captures humidity and filters it for reuse, contributing to the building’s sustainability. The architectural language employs geometric patterns and fractal forms that blend modernity with traditional motifs, ensuring aesthetic harmony with the surrounding landscape while fulfilling functional needs, such as shading and environmental comfort.

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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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