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Egg Crate Canopy and Sustainable Stucco Create Climate-Responsive Family Residence

Egg Crate Canopy and Sustainable Stucco Create Climate-Responsive Family Residence

Project in-detail

The integration of an egg crate canopy and lightweight stucco creates a climate-responsive dwelling that prioritizes energy efficiency and cultural interaction, designed to accommodate family life in the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
The egg crate canopy provides effective shading while enhancing natural ventilation.
02
Light-colored acrylic stucco minimizes heat absorption in the harsh UAE climate.
03
Separate congregational spaces for men and women accommodate cultural norms.
04
Flexible indoor-outdoor connections promote multifunctional family living.
05
Double-glazed windows with PVC frames optimize thermal performance and durability.
This architectural project is designed as a single-family dwelling located within the context of the United Arab Emirates, emphasizing integration with local climate conditions and cultural practices. The project comprises a two-storey structure that caters to both communal living and private space requirements, reflecting contemporary architectural principles while respecting traditional norms. Its function as a residence is clear, offering a blend of comfort and efficiency tailored to modern family life.

The layout is strategically organized into distinct zones. The first floor serves as the primary social area, including the kitchen, dining room, and designated spaces for family gatherings. These spaces are designed to facilitate interaction among family members while providing necessary amenities. The second floor is dedicated to private quarters, featuring a master suite and additional bedrooms designed for family members’ comfort.

Integrated Sustainability Features

A key aspect of this project is its commitment to sustainability, reflected in its material choices and design strategies. The exterior is clad with light-colored acrylic stucco, which not only reduces heat absorption but also complements the surrounding environment. The roofing system consists of polymer-modified bitumen with insulated foam concrete, enhancing energy efficiency and thermal comfort.

Windows are double-glazed and framed with PVC, optimizing insulation while allowing natural light to permeate the living spaces. The architectural design incorporates aluminum shade fins and an egg crate canopy that mitigates solar gains. These features are instrumental in reducing energy consumption and creating a comfortable indoor climate, necessary for the harsh UAE conditions.

The project also integrates renewable energy systems in a practical manner, positioning solar panels to maximize energy capture. This approach reflects a growing trend in architecture aimed at reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources.

Cultural Considerations in Design

Unique to this project is its cultural sensitivity, with spaces thoughtfully designed to accommodate the social structures prevalent within the region. Separate areas for men and women during gatherings highlight the importance of cultural norms in family interactions. This is a deliberate design choice that ensures compliance with local traditions while enhancing the experience of communal living.

Additionally, flexibility is a prominent feature of the design. Spaces are laid out to allow for future modifications, easily adapting to the evolving needs of the occupants. This adaptability ensures that the dwelling remains relevant across generations.

Readers interested in exploring the architectural details, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, are encouraged to delve deeper into the project's comprehensive presentation. Through analysis of these elements, a detailed understanding of the innovative architectural ideas can be attained, showcasing how this dwelling successfully merges form, function, and cultural relevance.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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