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Funicular Design Crafted with Local Brick and Glass to Foster Sustainable Living

Authors:
Ahmed Mohsen Mostafa Ahmed Moharam, Mohammed Emad
Funicular Design Crafted with Local Brick and Glass to Foster Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

With its funicular form and integration of local brick and expansive glass, the design creates a harmonious oasis that prioritizes sustainability and comfort for modern family living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a funicular design for enhanced structural stability.
02
Incorporates a central courtyard that fosters natural light and ventilation.
03
Features an eco-friendly green roof for thermal management.
04
Employs local brick and glass to create a seamless connection with the environment.
05
Integrates a gray water recycling system to support sustainability.
The Sustainable Oasis House is an architectural project located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This residential structure emphasizes sustainable living, seamlessly integrating modern design principles with traditional Emirati architecture. The primary function of the house is to provide a spacious and environmentally friendly living space for families, prioritizing interaction with nature while ensuring comfort and functionality in a desert climate.

At the heart of the design is a circular courtyard that serves as a communal area, connecting various living spaces while promoting natural light and ventilation. The layout includes a ground floor with shared family areas—lounge, kitchen, and dining zones—alongside service spaces for parking and utilities. The first floor hosts private quarters, including four bedrooms, allowing for privacy and accessibility via a bridge connection.

### Unique Architectural Approaches

The Sustainable Oasis House employs funicular design principles, which enhance structural stability while creating visually appealing forms. This innovative approach allows the building to stand out amidst Dubai’s skyline while remaining rooted in local architectural traditions. The materials selected for construction—brick, concrete, glass, steel, and photovoltaic panels—are chosen for their durability and energy efficiency. The use of expansive glazing maximizes natural light, while the green roof and integrated landscaping elements provide thermal benefits and aesthetic value.

Key elements like the photovoltaic panels operate to harness solar energy, fulfilling a crucial role in the project's commitment to sustainability. Natural ventilation is facilitated through strategically placed openings, minimizing reliance on artificial cooling systems. This is complemented by a gray water recycling system that further enhances the house's environmental performance.

### Functionality and User Experience

The design prioritizes user experience by creating spaces that encourage family interaction and individual privacy. The internal oasis not only enhances the aesthetic of the home but also promotes well-being by blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors. Each area is tailored to meet the needs of a modern family, with ample opportunities for connection and peaceful retreat.

Furthermore, the architectural plans detail the careful consideration given to the placement of rooms and communal areas, optimizing light and airflow throughout the house. Architectural sections reveal the interplay of spaces, providing insights into how the design maximizes usability and comfort.

For those interested in exploring the intricate details of the Sustainable Oasis House, including its architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas, a thorough examination of the project presentation is encouraged. The layers of thought and functionality embedded within this project offer valuable lessons in contemporary residential design.
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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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