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Expansive Glass Overhangs and Natural Stone Facades Create a Sustainable Oasis in Urban Living

Author:
Brianna Frank
Expansive Glass Overhangs and Natural Stone Facades Create a Sustainable Oasis in Urban Living

Project in-detail

Characterized by expansive glass overhangs and a façade of natural stone, the design fosters a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces to enhance the residential experience in the urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Expansive glass overhangs provide effective shading while enhancing natural light.
02
The use of charred wooden shingles creates a distinct texture and improves durability.
03
A bent A-frame structure maximizes interior space and promotes efficient airflow.
04
Integrated green terraces offer outdoor living areas that blend with the landscape.
05
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural integrity and sustainability.
The Dubai Villa represents a refined approach to modern residential architecture situated in the urban landscape of Dubai. This project epitomizes the integration of contemporary design principles while maintaining a strong connection to its natural surroundings. The villa's layout and form support an engaging lifestyle, fostering comfort and efficiency for its occupants.

The architectural design prioritizes functionality without compromising aesthetics. The use of an open-concept floor plan encourages fluid movement between spaces, ensuring a cohesive living experience. Generous use of glass facilitates natural light penetration and visual connectivity with the landscaped gardens, creating an interior environment that feels expansive and inviting.

Sustainable practices are embedded within the design ethos, as substantial overhangs not only enhance visual appeal but also provide essential shade from the harsh Dubai sun. This consideration reduces the reliance on mechanical cooling systems, contributing to energy efficiency.

Innovative Features and Functional Spaces

What distinguishes the Dubai Villa is its combination of architectural innovation and sustainable practices. The structural form incorporates both sweeping curves and defined angular lines, establishing a unique architectural language that sets it apart from conventional residential designs. The expansive roof design functions as a protective element, enhancing thermal comfort while contributing to the overall aesthetic distinctiveness of the project.

Landscaping plays a vital role in the villa's design, providing a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments. The integration of private courtyards and terraces offers outdoor spaces for social interaction and relaxation, further enhancing the quality of life for residents. Additionally, the strategic orientation of the building leverages natural breezes, reinforcing its sustainability goals.

Architectural Elements and Materiality

The architectural elements are meticulously considered, ensuring both functionality and visual cohesiveness. The materials selected for the facade and interior spaces include concrete, glass, bamboo, and natural stone. This combination creates a textural richness while maintaining a neutral color palette that complements the surrounding landscape.

The interior layout is equally functional, with dedicated zones for living, dining, and private spaces effectively delineated. Bedrooms are positioned for privacy, while communal areas are designed for interaction. The inclusion of supportive functional spaces, such as a garage, pantry, and utility rooms, aligns with the needs of modern living.

For further insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and overall architectural designs of the Dubai Villa, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation. This exploration will provide a comprehensive understanding of the thoughtful architectural ideas and innovative design techniques employed throughout the project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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