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Mass Timber Structure Incorporating Palmcrete for Community Learning in a Thermal Buffer Environment

Author:
Reza Salarzadeh
Mass Timber Structure Incorporating Palmcrete for Community Learning in a Thermal Buffer Environment

Project in-detail

Incorporating Palmcrete and mass timber, the design utilizes a wind tower for natural ventilation, creating an adaptive learning environment that fosters community engagement and educational opportunities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates Palmcrete, a sustainable material made from palm waste, enhancing thermal insulation.
02
Features a wind tower inspired by camel physiology for natural ventilation and cooling.
03
Designed with a flexible structure allowing for future adaptability to changing community needs.
04
Includes an "Experience Room" equipped for hands-on learning with 3D printing and robotics.
05
Utilizes a central courtyard as a thermal buffer and social interaction space, promoting community engagement.
Sun Fereej is an architectural project situated in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, designed to integrate traditional Emirati values with contemporary architectural solutions. The project serves as a multi-functional space dedicated to community engagement, education, and sustainability. It addresses the needs of families and youth by providing areas foster collaborative learning and social interaction.

The design is rooted in cultural references, featuring a central courtyard that serves as a thermal buffer and social gathering space. This spatial organization not only maximizes natural ventilation but also creates opportunities for communal activities, enhancing the overall experience within the environment. The incorporation of a wind tower—an adaptation inspired by camel physiology—provides passive cooling while utilizing natural airflow to regulate indoor temperatures effectively.

Sustainable design is a core principle of Sun Fereej, exemplifying various unique approaches that set this project apart from similar architectural endeavors. A key feature is the use of Palmcrete, a sustainable building material made from palm waste combined with lime, which provides insulation and reduces the environmental footprint of construction. This innovative material not only respects local resources but also highlights the project’s commitment to sustainable practices within the Dubai context.

The distinct architectural strategies employed extend to the flexible structure of the building itself, allowing for future adaptability. Each section of the project is designed with independent energy and water management systems, ensuring efficient use of resources. Solar panels supplement energy needs, while water conservation techniques employ minimally processed water, reinforcing the project’s sustainability goals.

The inclusion of an "Experience Room" emphasizes the project's focus on education and hands-on learning, equipped with facilities for 3D printing and robotics. This design aims to cultivate future innovation and skills among the youth, blending technological advancement with traditional learning paradigms.

Overall, Sun Fereej embodies a thoughtful response to the environmental, cultural, and educational challenges faced in modern urban settings. Through its unique materiality, sustainable strategies, and focus on community engagement, it serves as a relevant model for future architectural designs. For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of Sun Fereej.
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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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