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Natural Cooling Through Adobe and Water Features in Sustainable Residential Design

Author:
Elisabetta Grassi
Natural Cooling Through Adobe and Water Features in Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Harnessing natural ventilation through integrated windcatchers and a central courtyard, this sustainable residence employs adobe and water features to create an efficient living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central courtyard enhances natural ventilation and thermal comfort.
02
Integrated windcatchers optimize airflow throughout the interior.
03
Water features contribute to cooling and create a tranquil environment.
04
Adobe construction provides excellent thermal mass for energy efficiency.
05
Lattice facades promote privacy while allowing natural light access.
The Windcatchers House exemplifies a strategic architectural approach to sustainable design, focused on maximizing environmental performance while drawing from traditional influences. This residential project operates primarily through natural ventilation and passive cooling, promoting an energy-efficient lifestyle.

The design integrates a central courtyard that serves as the nucleus of the layout, allowing for natural light and ventilation to permeate various spaces. The project consists of a ground floor featuring communal areas, a service kitchen, and a swimming pool that utilizes evaporation for cooling, while the first floor hosts private bedrooms and bathrooms. A basement accommodates functional spaces such as a cinema and storage areas, ensuring a comprehensive solution for daily living.

The Windcatchers House represents a blend of cultural heritage and contemporary sustainability practices. Its architecture recalls characteristics of traditional Middle Eastern designs, notably the incorporation of windcatchers, which are instrumental in managing thermal comfort. Overall, the project underscores the idea that modern architecture can harmonize with natural surroundings while fulfilling contemporary needs.

Unique Climatic Adaptation Strategies
One of the distinctive features of the Windcatchers House is its use of windcatchers. This architectural element captures prevailing winds and channels them into the interior spaces, facilitating enhanced air circulation. The design also includes an innovative shower cooling system that efficiently uses mist to lower indoor temperatures without relying heavily on mechanical cooling systems.

The central courtyard with water features facilitates evaporation, further contributing to a cooler microclimate within the house. Garden spaces surrounding the courtyard provide both aesthetic value and promote biodiversity, effectively creating a green oasis amidst urban development. Furthermore, the use of adobe blocks as a primary construction material allows the structure to leverage thermal mass, which is crucial for temperature regulation throughout the year.

Material Choices and Environmental Considerations
The selection of materials for the Windcatchers House is both practical and intentional. Adobe blocks provide excellent thermal performance, ensuring comfortable indoor conditions with minimal reliance on artificial heating or cooling. The extensive use of glass enhances natural lighting and visual connectivity with the outdoor environment while maintaining structural integrity.

Wood elements featured in the lattice facades are significant for providing shade and privacy, while stone flooring offers durability and aids in thermal regulation. Water features incorporated within the courtyard serve not only a cooling function but also add to the overall sensory experience of the home.

The Windcatchers House stands as a testament to how architectural design can effectively integrate cultural heritage and cutting-edge sustainability practices. Its thoughtful designs and material choices create a suitable living environment while also respecting the local climate and ecology. For those interested in exploring the architectural details further, including plans, sections, and innovative design ideas, a thorough examination of the project presentation is highly encouraged.
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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
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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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