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Heat Chimney and Palm-Inspired Sunshades in a Modern Residential Retreat

Author:
Yasi̇r Abali
Heat Chimney and Palm-Inspired Sunshades in a Modern Residential Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating a heat chimney and palm-inspired sunshades, this residential design balances climate responsiveness with privacy, providing a comfortable living space that caters to both family and guest needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a heat chimney for natural ventilation.
02
Features palm-inspired sunshades for enhanced solar control.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for aesthetic and durability.
04
Separates guest and family areas for privacy and function.
05
Connects interior spaces to an inner garden for nature integration.
The "House of the Future - U House" is an architectural design project focused on enhancing the living experience through deliberate spatial organization and material selection. Designed to provide both privacy and functionality, the project represents a contemporary approach to residential architecture that aligns with modern lifestyle demands while responding to site conditions effectively. The layout offers distinctions between private and communal spaces, ensuring accessibility for both residents and guests.

Privacy and Spatial Organization
One of the standout features of this project is its emphasis on privacy, achieved through the strategic placement of guest and family areas. The guest block is situated separately from the main living spaces, allowing visiting individuals to access their amenities without intruding on the household. This separation not only enhances comfort but promotes a balanced flow of movement within the property. The living areas, centralized and visually connected to an inner garden through large windows, facilitate interactions among family members while maintaining a sense of spaciousness.

Climate Responsiveness and Sustainable Features
A notable element of the design is its climate-responsive strategy. Specifically, the incorporation of a heat chimney effectively manages indoor temperatures by expelling hot air and enhancing ventilation. Additionally, the careful placement of windows minimizes solar heat gain during peak hours, ensuring comfortable living conditions. Use of sustainable materials and energy-efficient design principles contributes to a reduced ecological footprint while maintaining aesthetic integrity. Large glass façades not only invite natural light but also establish connections between the interior and exterior, offering visual continuity to the surroundings.

Material Selection and Aesthetic Cohesion
The materials chosen for the U House convey both durability and aesthetic appeal. Concrete is prominently used for structural components, fostering a robust framework. Wood elements add warmth and texture, contrasting with the sleekness of extensive glass applications. The introduction of decorative sunshades, inspired by local palm trees, not only serves a functional purpose—providing shading and reducing heat exposure—but also roots the design in its geographical context. This thoughtful material palette, combined with intricate architectural details, provides a cohesive visual language that is both modern and respectful of local traditions.

For those interested in understanding the full scope of this architectural project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and specific design decisions, further exploration of the project presentation is encouraged to gain deeper insights into the foundations of this innovative design.
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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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