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Natural Cooling Through Rammed Earth and Timber Shutters in Sustainable Residential Design

Authors:
Shalise Barnes, Hassan Dehghanpour, Marzieh Pourramezan Zideh Saraei, Jelena Markovic
Natural Cooling Through Rammed Earth and Timber Shutters in Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Employing rammed earth and timber shutters to enhance natural ventilation, this sustainable residence seamlessly integrates traditional design elements with modern environmental strategies to create a comfortable family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth as the primary structural material for improved thermal performance.
02
Incorporates adjustable timber shutters to optimize light and airflow throughout the day.
03
Features a central courtyard that enhances natural ventilation and provides an outdoor gathering space.
04
Integrates photovoltaic panels to support energy needs, reducing reliance on external power sources.
05
Employs traditional windcatcher design principles to enhance passive cooling methods.
The Dubai Future House is an architectural project designed to address sustainability in an extreme climate. Integrating traditional design elements with modern construction methods, it serves as a forward-thinking residential model focused on energy efficiency, passive cooling, and smart technology. The house embodies a commitment to environmental responsibility while also providing a comfortable living environment.

Sustainability is a central theme in the design of the Dubai Future House. The project utilizes rammed earth as its primary building material, which has a lower carbon footprint compared to conventional concrete. Traditional ventilation methods, such as windcatchers, are employed to facilitate natural airflow, reducing the reliance on mechanical cooling systems. The incorporation of timber slatted wooden shutters and breezeblocks not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also improves ventilation and light management. With these features, the design balances modern needs with ecological considerations.

The layout of the house effectively separates public and private spaces, facilitating both community interaction and personal retreat. Key components include a central courtyard that promotes airflow and provides outdoor leisure space. Defined zones showcase areas meant for social gatherings alongside private living quarters, ensuring that the design fulfills the functional needs of a contemporary family.

This project distinguishes itself from other residential buildings through its innovative design approaches rooted in local context. The integration of photovoltaic panels supports energy independence and reduces electricity costs associated with cooling. Automated shading systems adapt to sunlight conditions, optimizing indoor comfort passively. The play of light and shadow through the perforated façades is a deliberate design choice that enhances both the aesthetics and functionality of the space.

The Dubai Future House stands as an exemplar of climate-responsive architecture, marrying traditional practices with modern design strategies to produce a resilient and sustainable living environment. For more detailed insights, including architectural plans and sections, explore additional project materials that further illustrate the innovative design and architectural ideas employed in this development.
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MICROHOME
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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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