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Lattice Screens and Exposed Concrete Create Comfortable Shaded Living Spaces in a Dynamic Urban Environment

Authors:
Min Yeong Cha, Hyungsun Lim
Lattice Screens and Exposed Concrete Create Comfortable Shaded Living Spaces in a Dynamic Urban Environment

Project in-detail

Combining lattice screens with exposed concrete elements, the design fosters a naturally ventilated, shaded environment that enhances community living in the urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional Arabic mashrabiya for effective shading and ventilation.
02
Utilizes exposed concrete and natural stone to enhance thermal mass and climate responsiveness.
03
Features interconnected outdoor spaces that facilitate social interactions among residents.
04
Integrates strategically placed openings to optimize natural airflow throughout the structure.
05
Incorporates flexible layouts that allow for multifunctional living spaces tailored to community needs.

### Overview
"Dubai Zephyr" is located in Dubai, a vibrant urban center where traditional and contemporary design coalesce. The project emphasizes the integration of cultural heritage and modern architectural practices, addressing the specific climatic needs of the region. It aims to enhance the livability of the space through effective shading and outdoor environments while fostering community interactions reminiscent of historic streetscapes.

### Climate-Responsive Design
The design philosophy is influenced by local climatic conditions and rooted in the Arabic proverb emphasizing the importance of shade and comfort. The structure features shaded areas and breezy outdoor spaces that facilitate comfortable living in Dubai's arid climate. The incorporation of narrow alleys mirrors the character of the Old Town, allowing for dynamic interactions between public and private realms. Featuring a flexible first floor designed for social activities, the layout includes integrated gardens that create connections to the external environment.

### Material Selection
Materials were selected for both their functionality and cultural resonance. Exposed concrete serves as the primary structural element, providing thermal mass, while natural wood paneling adds warmth to interiors. Large glass openings enhance transparency and natural light, and traditional lattice screens offer shade while promoting airflow. Landscaping employs stone to create tactile outdoor spaces, reflecting a blend of traditional and contemporary materials that respect local construction methods.

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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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