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Limestone Façade and Clay Plaster Define a Desert Courtyard Oasis for Modern Living

Author:
Thanh TrÀ NguyỄn
Limestone Façade and Clay Plaster Define a Desert Courtyard Oasis for Modern Living

Project in-detail

Combining a limestone façade with a central clay plaster courtyard, the design creates a sustainable living space that facilitates social interaction while addressing the climatic conditions of Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Limestone façade integrates traditional aesthetics with modern thermal performance.
02
Central clay plaster courtyard promotes natural ventilation and social interaction.
03
Movable louver screens adapt to the sun’s position, enhancing indoor comfort.
04
Distinct zoning separates private, guest, and service areas for improved functionality.
05
Locally sourced materials reduce environmental impact and support regional craftsmanship.
The "Hidden Oasis" is an architectural residential project located in Dubai, UAE. This design combines contemporary and traditional architectural elements to create a harmonious living space that balances privacy, social interaction, and environmental sustainability. The structure is meticulously organized around a central courtyard, which serves as both the heart of the home and a climate-responsive feature, effectively integrating indoor and outdoor living.

The project represents a modern interpretation of traditional Arabic architecture, emphasizing the importance of communal spaces while offering a refuge from the urban environment. It functions not only as a residence but also as a social hub, enabling family gatherings and fostering connections among residents. The layout promotes flexibility and adaptability, enhancing the user experience throughout the day.

Sustainable Material Choices and Innovative Designs
A key differentiator of the "Hidden Oasis" project is its thoughtful selection of materials, which include local limestone, clay plaster, tiles, wood, and steel. These materials are not only aesthetically pleasing but also chosen for their thermal properties, reducing energy consumption and enhancing comfort within the home. The use of movable louver screens inspired by traditional mashrabiya designs is another unique aspect, allowing residents to control sunlight and airflow, thus creating a comfortable living environment while minimizing reliance on artificial cooling systems.

The spatial organization of the interior is another distinctive feature. The design segments the home into distinct functional areas: a private owner zone, a guest zone, and a service zone. This zoning facilitates efficient circulation and enhances privacy, allowing for a natural flow of movement while maintaining individual spaces. The central courtyard is pivotal in this organization, encouraging social interaction and connection to nature.

Climate Adaptation and Engagement with Environment
The orientation of the building plays a critical role in its functionality. By positioning the structure along a North-South axis, the design minimizes direct sunlight exposure while maximizing natural ventilation. The architectural layout is meticulously calibrated to respond to Dubai's climatic conditions, demonstrating a commitment to passive design strategies. The integration of outdoor spaces within the courtyard ensures that residents are continually engaged with their environment, allowing for leisure and relaxation in a serene setting.

For those interested in exploring the "Hidden Oasis" project further, detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs provide opportunities to understand the innovative ideas and approaches that underpin this residence. Engage with these elements to gain a deeper insight into how this project reinterprets traditional concepts within a modern context.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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