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Harnessing Wind Flow With Precast Concrete and Palm Fronds in a Sustainable Residence

Author:
Mousa Al-haddad
Harnessing Wind Flow With Precast Concrete and Palm Fronds in a Sustainable Residence

Project in-detail

Employing palm fronds for shading and a wind funnel design, the residence integrates natural cooling mechanisms with precast concrete to create an energy-efficient family home in the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes wind funneling techniques to enhance natural ventilation and reduce energy costs.
02
Incorporates palm fronds for shading and cultural significance, reflecting local traditions.
03
Features precast concrete elements designed for thermal efficiency in an arid climate.
04
Includes a dedicated Majlis, promoting social interaction and community engagement.
05
Employs low-emission materials to ensure healthier indoor air quality.

### Project Overview

Located in the Gulf region, this innovative residential design draws inspiration from the falcon, symbolizing power and precision in the United Arab Emirates. The project integrates avant-garde aesthetics with localized functionality, responding effectively to the environment and cultural context. Its design seeks to optimize energy efficiency while providing a comfortable and adaptable living space for its inhabitants.

### Spatial Strategy and Ventilation Solutions

The architectural approach emphasizes an aerodynamic form that facilitates natural ventilation and energy management. Wind-funnel mechanisms strategically embedded within the structure guide prevailing breezes, enhancing airflow throughout the interiors. Ventilation shafts are incorporated at key junctures, ensuring adequate air circulation aligns with the overall aesthetics. Additionally, mechanical cooling systems are precisely calibrated to adapt to environmental changes, supporting thermal comfort and personalization in the living experience.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Material selection prioritizes sustainability and climate adaptability, utilizing resources suited for the regional environment. Key features include double-glazed windows filled with argon gas for thermal insulation, low-emissivity glass to reduce heat gain, and 3D precast elements that enhance thermal performance. Local materials, such as palm fronds for shading, emphasize cultural significance while ensuring healthy indoor air quality through the use of VOC-free finishes. The design also incorporates solar panels, enhancing energy capture and reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainable living practices.

The residence is organized into clearly defined zones, including private and communal spaces that foster practicality and lifestyle adaptability. Integration of courtyards and terraces encourages outdoor living, allowing for flexibility across seasons. Multi-functional areas are designed to accommodate evolving user needs, supporting both work and leisure within the home environment.

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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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