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Natural Brick Facade and Passive Cooling System in Desert Housing Design

Natural Brick Facade and Passive Cooling System in Desert Housing Design

Project in-detail

Incorporating a natural brick facade and a tailored passive cooling system, this desert residence achieves energy efficiency while providing a comfortable living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Natural brick is used for thermal regulation, enhancing comfort in arid climates.
02
A passive cooling system mimics traditional methods to reduce energy consumption.
03
Solar panels are integrated into the design for self-sufficiency in energy needs.
04
The layout separates public and private spaces, fostering both community and privacy.
05
The use of locally sourced materials strengthens the connection to the environment.

The architectural project "Free" designed by Zeerpot represents a contemporary solution to living in arid climates. This design focuses on sustainable living, offering a response to the demands of environmental challenges associated with hot weather. The project features a thoughtful integration of materials and technologies aimed at optimizing thermal performance and energy self-sufficiency.

Spatially, the design efficiently separates communal and private areas, promoting both interaction and privacy. The ground floor hosts open-plan living spaces that extend to outdoor areas, encouraging a connection with the natural surroundings. The upper floor is designated for private use, containing bedrooms and a terrace designed to provide views of the landscape. Additionally, a basement is included for utility purposes, ensuring that daily activities are seamlessly organized and managed.

Unique Design Solutions

One of the most notable features of the "Free" project is its innovative approach to cooling and energy efficiency. The architecture incorporates a natural air cooling system, which draws upon locally inspired strategies for ventilation. This design aims to minimize reliance on mechanical systems while providing shelter that is comfortable and climate-appropriate.

The use of natural brick, sourced locally, establishes a tactile relationship with the landscape while promoting thermal stability inside the dwelling. This material not only enhances the aesthetic value of the structure through its brickwork patterns but also embodies a commitment to context-based architecture. Complementary materials like glass and steel further articulate the building's modern identity, allowing for expansive views while maintaining structural integrity.

Functional Integration and Landscape Connection

The project integrates renewable technologies, notably solar panels, strategically placed on the roof to maximize energy capture. This forward-thinking approach allows the building to harness sunlight, thereby contributing to its overall energy independence. The architectural design also reflects a clear understanding of site-specific landscaping, featuring native vegetation that minimizes water usage and enhances the building's harmony with its environment.

Overall, "Free" by Zeerpot exemplifies a focused and practical response to contemporary architectural challenges in desert climates. Its functional layout and commitment to sustainability provide a viable template for future developments. To gain deeper insights into the design, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural ideas, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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