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Mashrabiya Facade Enhances Vertical Growth in a Sustainable Coastal Urban Hub

Authors:
Brahim Zouaoui, Souhail Zouaoui, Anas Bensaoud
Mashrabiya Facade Enhances Vertical Growth in a Sustainable Coastal Urban Hub

Project in-detail

The integration of a traditional mashrabiya facade with dual-axis floating photovoltaics creates an environmentally responsive vertical landmark that serves as a dynamic urban hub in Tangier.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a mashrabiya facade for cultural integration and ventilation.
02
Dual-axis floating photovoltaic panels optimize energy capture on water.
03
A vertical structure enhances urban density while encouraging movement.
04
Green roofs improve biodiversity and provide insulation benefits.
05
Dedicated yacht access promotes maritime connections with Europe.

Prosperity Tower is located in Tangier, Morocco, positioned at a significant intersection of cultures and geography. It serves not only as a physical structure but also as a representation of the blend between modern European influences and traditional North African culture. The design features two interlocking components: a horizontal section that promotes connectivity and a vertical section that symbolizes growth and aspiration.

Design Concept
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The design features a unique form composed of a horizontal segment and a vertical portion. The horizontal part focuses on facilitating movement and public engagement, providing a gathering space for the community. In contrast, the vertical section embodies an aspiration for progress, contributing to the overall skyline of Tangier. This design reflects the vibrant spirit of the city, inviting interaction while also encouraging upward development.

Sustainability Features
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Sustainability plays a central role in the design of Prosperity Tower. The project includes dual-axis floating photovoltaic panels, which are placed on nearby water bodies. This positioning maximizes energy production without occupying valuable land space. These panels not only help to meet the energy needs of the building but also benefit the local environment by reducing water evaporation, which is important for the surrounding ecosystem.

Cultural Elements
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The facade utilizes mashrabiya, a traditional architectural feature known for its intricate patterns. This design connects the building to the cultural heritage of the area while providing functional benefits like shading and ventilation. The entrance and podium integrate this element, creating a harmonious blend of old and new. The play of light and shadow through the mashrabiya enhances the visitor experience, inviting them to engage with the space.

Integration with Urban Infrastructure
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Prosperity Tower is strategically linked to local public transportation systems, enhancing access for both residents and visitors. A dedicated yacht area also promotes connections with Europe, further integrating the tower into the vibrant urban landscape. Additionally, green roofs are incorporated, improving insulation and supporting biodiversity within the city.


The architectural design culminates in a thoughtful use of form and light. As sunlight filters through the mashrabiya, it creates a dance of shadows throughout the day, highlighting the building’s connection to its cultural context while enriching the urban environment.

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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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