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GRC Facades and Courtyard Integration in Contemporary Emirati Family Living

Authors:
Ghadeer Helal Abdulhusain Ahmed Salman, Maryam Salman Hasan Juma, Masooma Haleem Ali Abdulla Ali Qaroof, Mohamed Helal Abdulhusain Ahmed Salman
GRC Facades and Courtyard Integration in Contemporary Emirati Family Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing glass reinforced concrete for intricate façade designs and a central courtyard to enhance community interaction, the residence embodies contemporary Emirati living while fostering family connections.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes glass reinforced concrete to create intricate façade patterns inspired by traditional Talli motifs.
02
Features a central courtyard that enhances natural light and ventilation throughout the living spaces.
03
Incorporates flexible room configurations to adapt to changing family needs over time.
04
Includes recessed windows that optimize energy efficiency while maintaining visual connections with the surroundings.
05
Integrates outdoor terraces in guest accommodations, promoting social interactions and engagement with the environment.
The House of TALLI is an architectural project that seamlessly integrates traditional Emirati cultural references with contemporary design principles. Its design is influenced by Talli, a distinctive Emirati craft traditionally incorporated into women’s clothing, which informs both its aesthetic and conceptual framework. The project emphasizes community interactions and familial connectivity while adhering to modern residential needs.

The structure features a well-organized layout divided into public, semi-private, and private spaces. The ground floor serves as the heart of the home, accommodating a living area, a traditional majlis, and a kitchen. This layout fosters social engagement while providing necessary service areas. A central courtyard enhances natural light and ventilation, creating an inviting space for family gatherings.

The first floor is dedicated to private family quarters, ensuring personal areas for each resident. Here, the design anticipates future adaptability, making space for elderly family members or additional living areas. Finally, the second floor is designated for guest rooms that include terraces, promoting outdoor usage and community connection.

Innovative design strategies distinguish the House of TALLI from other residential projects. The use of glass reinforced concrete (GRC) for façades allows for intricate detailing reminiscent of Talli patterns, enhancing the visual appeal while maintaining structural robustness. The incorporation of recessed windows mitigates direct sunlight exposure and contributes to the building’s energy efficiency.

The project employs cantilevered sections that create shaded areas, enhancing climate-responsive design. Sliding doors are utilized to blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, reinforcing the house's connection to its environment. Plaster finishes throughout the house provide warmth, contributing to the overall aesthetic while respecting traditional materials used in Emirati architecture.

The House of TALLI represents not just a residential dwelling but a cultural narrative woven into its design. The integration of traditional motifs with adaptive living illustrates an architectural philosophy grounded in community and innovation. Explore the project presentation for a closer look at its architectural plans, sections, and thoughtful designs that embody contemporary Emirati living while paying homage to its rich heritage. Engaging with these elements will provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that drive this project forward.
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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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