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Mashrabiyya Screens and Glulam Timber Create Adaptive Living Spaces in Sustainable Design

Author:
Saumya Ganguli
Mashrabiyya Screens and Glulam Timber Create Adaptive Living Spaces in Sustainable Design

Project in-detail

Incorporating retractable Mashrabiyya screens and glulam timber, the design adapts to environmental conditions while providing a functional space for modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Retractable Mashrabiyya screens adjust to changing weather for enhanced ventilation and privacy.
02
Glulam timber provides structural strength while reducing overall carbon footprint.
03
Integrated rainwater harvesting system supports sustainable water management.
04
Internal courtyards foster natural light and a connection to outdoor spaces.
05
Smart home technology enables efficient energy use and customizable living environments.
The House of the Future is an architectural project located in a residential area of the UAE, designed to merge traditional Middle Eastern architectural elements with modern sustainability practices. This project aims to enhance livability through innovative design strategies while reducing environmental impact. By embracing both function and aesthetics, the House of the Future serves as a prototype for contemporary residential architecture.

The main architectural features include an open structure that promotes flexible spatial configurations. Internal spaces are designed to adapt based on user needs, which enables the accommodation of various living arrangements. The building integrates natural ventilation techniques through wind catchers and features an extensive sustainable system, including rainwater harvesting and solar energy integration.

The unique aspects of the House of the Future include its Mashrabiyya panels, which provide ventilation and privacy while enhancing the visual complexity of the façade. These panels are designed to retract and extend based on environmental conditions, representing an innovative approach to passive climate control. Additionally, the incorporation of internal courtyards, shallow water features, and a wind tower further enhances the interaction between inside and outside spaces, fostering a stronger connection to the natural environment.

Sustainability remains a primary focus throughout the project. The use of materials such as glue-laminated timber, laminated boards, and polycarbonate glazing contribute to energy efficiency, maximizing insulation and minimizing energy consumption. The advanced smart home technology integrated into the design allows residents to manage energy use effectively, facilitating ease of living while promoting responsible consumption.

For further insights into this innovative project, explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that detail its functional aspects and design methodologies. An in-depth review of the architectural ideas behind the House of the Future will provide a comprehensive understanding of this forward-thinking residential development.
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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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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