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Honeycomb Vent Bricks and Sustainable AAC Blocks Define a Climate-Responsive Residence

Author:
Hiba Alqadah
Honeycomb Vent Bricks and Sustainable AAC Blocks Define a Climate-Responsive Residence

Project in-detail

Crafted with honeycomb vent bricks and AAC blocks, this residence offers optimal thermal comfort and ventilation, serving as a functional family home in a challenging climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using honeycomb vent bricks that enhance passive cooling.
02
Utilizes AAC blocks for lightweight thermal insulation and energy efficiency.
03
Incorporates courtyards to promote cross ventilation and reduce heat.
04
Features a traditional *almajlis* space that reflects local cultural values.
05
Designed to harmonize with the challenging climate while maintaining comfort.

The Honey Comb House is a residential architectural project designed to meet the specific needs of a family within a challenging climate environment. Situated in the Middle East, this project effectively combines sustainable design principles with functional living spaces. The architecture reflects an understanding of the local vernacular while incorporating modern techniques that enhance energy efficiency and comfort.

The design organizes the dwelling into three distinct zones: a guest area, a family zone, and a service zone. The guest zone includes traditional gathering spaces like *almajlis*, an office, pantry, and washroom, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors. The family zone encompasses the main living areas including the living room, dining room, and bedrooms, which serve as the core interaction spaces for family members. Finally, the service zone focuses on the practical and operational aspects of living, housing the kitchen, laundry, and utility areas to ensure that the functional elements complement the residential experience.

Unique Design Approaches

The Honey Comb House employs innovative passive cooling strategies through its architectural form and material selection. The use of honeycomb vent bricks facilitates airflow while minimizing direct sun exposure, allowing the structure to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures naturally. This brickwork not only contributes to the aesthetic of the façade but also embodies the principles of passive solar design.

The integration of wind tunnels between the building masses enhances cross-ventilation, reducing dependence on mechanical cooling systems. This design approach reflects a comprehensive understanding of site-specific climate challenges. Furthermore, the use of local materials such as AAC blocks and clay vent bricks not only supports regional craftsmanship but also improves the thermal performance of the structure.

Interior spaces are designed for fluidity, promoting interaction and engagement among residents. Open floor plans and strategically placed windows maximize natural light and reinforce a connection with the exterior environment.

Sustainable Material Selection

The Honey Comb House prioritizes sustainability through its choice of materials. The primary construction is achieved using Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) blocks, which are known for their lightweight properties and high insulation values. The local clay vent bricks provide both ventilation and thermal benefits, exemplifying environmentally conscious design choices. This careful selection of materials serves to enhance the overall energy efficiency of the home, aligning the project with contemporary sustainability standards.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Honey Comb House, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs that illustrate how these innovative concepts translate into practical living spaces. Engaging with the project presentation will provide deeper insight into the architectural ideas and techniques utilized throughout this well-conceived design.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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