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Mud Brick Courtyard With Indoor Gardens Enhancing Natural Ventilation and Community Interaction

Authors:
Scott Barry Cohen, Ovide Cohen
Mud Brick Courtyard With Indoor Gardens Enhancing Natural Ventilation and Community Interaction

Project in-detail

The integration of mud brick and indoor gardens creates a sustainable courtyard that enhances natural ventilation and fosters community interaction within a modern residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced mud brick for enhanced thermal insulation.
02
Features an internal courtyard that integrates nature into living spaces.
03
Incorporates flexible spaces that adapt to changing family needs.
04
Employs extensive glass elements to maximize natural light and views.
05
Integrates indoor gardens that improve air quality and promote well-being.
The Courtyard House project exemplifies a contemporary approach to residential design, accommodating the needs of modern urban living while promoting sustainability and community interaction. This architectural endeavor integrates indoor and outdoor environments, creating a harmonious living space that encourages social engagement and personal privacy. Emphasizing local materials and a thoughtful layout, the design positions itself as a forward-thinking solution to the challenges associated with increased urban density.

Adaptable Space and Community Focus

At the core of the Courtyard House is the internal courtyard, serving as a communal hub that enhances natural light and ventilation throughout the residence. This central feature not only fosters social interaction among residents but also creates a peaceful retreat that allows for relaxation and recreation. The layout strategically places living areas adjacent to the courtyard, ensuring seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The design prioritizes functionality with distinct areas dedicated to shared use and private rooms, optimizing the flow of movement within the home. Ground floor spaces accommodate communal living and dining functions, while the first floor is designated for private quarters or flexible workspaces. This configuration reflects a contemporary understanding of family dynamics and the varied ways households utilize space.

Material Selection and Sustainability

The project employs a diverse range of materials, each chosen for its aesthetic qualities, structural capabilities, and sustainability. Locally sourced mud brick is integrated for its thermal properties, reducing energy consumption while reinforcing community connection. Concrete masonry units and cast concrete provide the necessary structural integrity to support expansive and open layouts. Steel elements offer flexibility, allowing for larger openings and innovative design features.

Glass is extensively used to maintain visual connections with the environment, ensuring that natural light permeates the interior spaces. Various grille systems enhance airflow and light modulation, creating a comfortable microclimate while maintaining privacy. This careful selection of materials underscores the project's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Innovative Design Approaches

The Courtyard House distinguishes itself through its hybrid approach to architecture, merging traditional design principles with modern functionality. The architectural layout prioritizes interaction without sacrificing personal space, representing a contemporary response to the evolving nature of residential living.

Unique to this project is the emphasis on multifunctional spaces, allowing rooms to adapt to changing needs over time. The integration of indoor gardens within living areas not only enhances quality of life through biophilic design but also supports environmental sustainability. These features contribute to a dwelling that fulfills practical needs while promoting well-being.

For more detailed insights into the Courtyard House project, including architectural plans, sections, and design diagrams, readers are encouraged to explore the comprehensive project presentation. This analysis highlights key architectural elements and invites further examination of the innovative ideas that define this unique residential design.
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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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