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Limestone Facades and Traditional Jaali Screens Enhance Sustainable Living in Contemporary Emirati Design

Authors:
Muddassir Ahmed, Nawazish Ansari
Limestone Facades and Traditional Jaali Screens Enhance Sustainable Living in Contemporary Emirati Design

Project in-detail

Incorporating limestone facades and intricate jaali screens, this residence enhances solar efficiency and natural cooling while providing a seamless blend of communal and private spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Limestone facades provide thermal mass, enhancing energy efficiency.
02
Jaali screens facilitate natural ventilation while maintaining privacy.
03
The layout incorporates extensive courtyards to promote outdoor living.
04
Water features are strategically placed for aesthetic appeal and cooling.
05
Integrated solar panels support energy needs without compromising design.
The project under review is a residential architectural design located in the United Arab Emirates, focusing on the integration of traditional cultural elements with contemporary design principles. This architecture exemplifies the harmony between modern living and historical significance, emphasizing functionality while maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.

The design prioritizes distinct architectural zones that enhance both social interaction and privacy within the structure. These zones include dedicated areas for public engagement—such as the Men’s Majlis—service functionalities like parking and laundry, and private living spaces with en-suite options. The overall layout facilitates circulation and interaction, allowing residents to enjoy communal spaces without compromising their privacy.

Unique Design Elements and Cultural Integration

A defining aspect of this project is its thoughtful incorporation of traditional architectural motifs, such as arches and latticework, which resonate with local heritage. The façade blends these elements with contemporary materials, creating a dialogue between past and present. The use of local materials like limestone and coral stone not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also ensures thermal comfort and sustainability—key considerations in the UAE climate.

Natural light is a focal point in the design. Large glass windows and doors lead to terraces and courtyards, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor environments. This layout promotes natural ventilation and encourages outdoor living, fundamental to the Emirati lifestyle. The strategic placement of water features within the exterior design further enhances the cooling effect, creating serene outdoor spaces that serve as extensions of the living area.

Sustainable Practices and Functional Design Approach

The project employs sustainable architectural practices, integrating passive cooling strategies such as wind towers and shaded courtyards to enhance energy efficiency. Insulated walls ensure optimal thermal performance while reducing the need for mechanical cooling. The integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, signals a commitment to environmentally friendly practices.

Interior layouts are designed for flexibility and adaptability, catering to the varying needs of modern families. The inclusion of multifunctional spaces reflects current trends in residential architecture, ensuring that the home can evolve with its occupants' lifestyles.

This project serves as a contemporary interpretation of Emirati architecture, encapsulating a rich cultural narrative while addressing modern needs. For those looking for a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, exploring the detailed presentation can provide valuable insights into this unique project.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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