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Natural Brown Mud Blocks and Perforated Screens Define a Community-Focused Courtyard Residence

Authors:
Yousof Diab, Omar Hakla
Natural Brown Mud Blocks and Perforated Screens Define a Community-Focused Courtyard Residence

Project in-detail

Employing natural brown mud blocks and intricate perforated screens, the design integrates communal open spaces to foster social interaction within a sustainable residential framework.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a central courtyard to enhance airflow and social interaction.
02
Utilizes mud blocks for thermal mass and energy efficiency.
03
Features perforated screens for privacy and passive ventilation.
04
Incorporates community gardens on multiple levels for resident engagement.
05
Employs a flexible structural grid to allow future expansion options.
The House of Tribulus is an architectural project that harmonizes contemporary design principles with traditional influences found in Middle Eastern architecture. The project is designed to serve as a residence that promotes communal living, reflects cultural values, and incorporates sustainable building practices. Featuring a configuration that prioritizes natural light, ventilation, and the use of thermal mass, this project addresses both environmental and social parameters within its urban context.

The design utilizes a central courtyard, a hallmark of traditional Middle Eastern homes, which enhances airflow and creates outdoor gathering spaces. This configuration facilitates social interaction among residents and connects indoor spaces with the external environment, reinforcing communal relationships. The layout is responsive to the local climate, optimizing thermal comfort through strategic orientation and arrangement of spaces.

Sustainable Material Use and Energy Efficiency

The House of Tribulus is marked by the thoughtful selection of materials that contribute to its durability and environmental performance. Mud blocks are used extensively in the exterior walls, providing excellent thermal mass. This material choice minimizes energy consumption for heating and cooling. Other materials include concrete for structural integrity, plaster for interior finishing, and insulation materials such as polystyrene, which contribute to passive climate control.

Unique to this project is the integration of solar panels and green roof systems that enhance energy efficiency and promote biodiversity. The façade features perforated screens that provide privacy while supporting airflow, reflecting a modern interpretation of traditional architectural motifs. This design minimizes direct sunlight penetration, aiding in temperature regulation of interior spaces.

Community-centric Design Elements

Another defining aspect of The House of Tribulus is its emphasis on community engagement through design. The project incorporates garden spaces on multiple levels, which act as communal areas for occupants. These spaces not only serve aesthetic purposes but also encourage social interaction and recreational activities.

Moreover, the structural grid has been designed to allow for future adaptability, providing options for expansion without compromising the integrity of the overall design. This approach responds to the evolving needs of the community and emphasizes the project's long-term viability.

The use of Islamic architectural elements, such as patterns reminiscent of Mugarnas, links the design intrinsically to its cultural context. This thoughtful inclusion of heritage in the design promotes a sense of identity while progressing architectural discourse within modern frameworks.

For detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs of The House of Tribulus, the reader is encouraged to explore the project's comprehensive presentation. Understanding the architectural ideas embedded in this project can provide further clarity on its sustainable features and the innovative design strategies employed.
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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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