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Harnessing Wind Towers and Blockwork for Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
Monika Malwina Kalinowska, Denys Karandiuk
Harnessing Wind Towers and Blockwork for Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing wind towers and durable blockwork, this residential development offers a flexible living environment that adapts to the needs of families while promoting energy efficiency and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates wind towers for efficient passive cooling.
02
Utilizes a modular design allowing for future expansion of living spaces.
03
Integrates an advanced rainwater collection system for irrigation.
04
Employs 3D printing for customized architectural elements.
05
Features a central tower that serves as a community resource hub.
The “Tradition Renewed” architectural project addresses contemporary residential needs in the United Arab Emirates by fusing traditional design elements with modern architectural practices. This initiative aims to create a versatile housing model that accommodates the evolving requirements of families while promoting sustainability. The central focus on adaptability allows the project to respond to changes in demographics and lifestyles, ensuring long-term utility and relevance.

The main design feature is the Central Tower, which serves as a community hub connecting various residential units. This design element facilitates efficient resource management and integrates essential services like energy and water management systems. The project comprises modular housing types that can expand or contract based on family size, offering flexibility in spatial organization. This adaptability is essential in a rapidly changing urban environment, allowing residents to reconfigure their living spaces without extensive renovation.

Unique Design Approaches in Community and Sustainability

The project distinguishes itself through its innovative approach to community integration and sustainability. The incorporation of community spaces encourages interaction among residents, fostering a sense of belonging. Shaded courtyards and outdoor gathering areas enhance the residential experience by promoting social engagement.

Sustainability is a core principle guiding the project, with design strategies that prioritize environmental performance. Wind towers are integrated into the architectural design to promote passive cooling, reducing dependence on air conditioning systems. An advanced rainwater collection system efficiently manages water resources, allowing for irrigation of communal green spaces while minimizing waste. The integration of solar panels supports energy needs, aligning with goals for net-zero energy consumption within the community.

Detailed Architectural Elements

The architectural elements of “Tradition Renewed” reflect a careful consideration of materiality and contextual relevance. The primary materials include blockwork and concrete, known for their durability and thermal properties, ensuring structural integrity while providing a sense of stability. The use of 3D printing technology in specific components showcases an innovative approach to customization, enhancing the project’s adaptability while reducing construction waste.

Architectural plans and sections illustrate the effectiveness of the design in maximizing natural light and airflow, contributing to both comfort and energy efficiency. Each villa type has been meticulously designed to accommodate varying family configurations, enhancing the project’s appeal to a diverse audience. The thoughtful spatial arrangement ensures privacy while maintaining open communication between units, creating an inviting and functional residential environment.

For further insights, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas presented in this project, providing a comprehensive understanding of its depth and architectural intent.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
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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