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Natural Stone and Glass Facades Embrace Climate Adaptation in Residential Design

Author:
Benjamin Hafner
Natural Stone and Glass Facades Embrace Climate Adaptation in Residential Design

Project in-detail

Employing natural stone and expansive glass facades to enhance desert adaptation, the design seamlessly integrates private gardens within a residential environment, prioritizing sustainability and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a double-height atrium for enhanced natural ventilation and light distribution.
02
Incorporates metal screens for shading while allowing airflow and privacy.
03
Features multiple integrated gardens to promote biodiversity and outdoor living.
04
Employs sustainable materials including reinforced concrete and natural stone.
05
Fosters community interaction through a carefully arranged layout of residential units.
The Garden Houses project in Dubai represents a contemporary approach to residential architecture that prioritizes the integration of natural elements within urban living. This project functions as a series of residential units designed to enhance the quality of life for its inhabitants while maintaining a strong connection to the external landscape. The layout features private gardens and communal outdoor spaces, promoting an environment that blends indoor and outdoor living.

The design is marked by careful spatial organization, where living areas are oriented toward gardens and natural light penetrates deeply through expansive glass windows. Each unit incorporates multiple garden spaces that serve both aesthetic and functional roles, providing a retreat for residents and encouraging a biodiverse environment.

Spatial Organization and Innovative Design Solutions

One distinguishing feature of the Garden Houses is the incorporation of a double-height atrium at the center of each residence. This architectural element allows for enhanced natural ventilation and light distribution throughout the home, addressing the local climate challenges in Dubai. Additionally, the strategic use of metal screens provides essential shading while maintaining privacy and airflow, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor spaces comfortably.

The project utilizes a palette of materials that emphasize durability and sustainability. Reinforced concrete forms the structural backbone, while glass is extensively used in windows and sliding doors to create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor areas. Natural stone and wood are applied in both interior and exterior finishing, anchoring the design in the local context.

Emphasis on Community and Sustainability

The Garden Houses project fosters community interaction through the arrangement of units and shared garden spaces. This design promotes social engagement among residents while retaining personal privacy. The landscape design is tailored to the local climate, featuring native vegetation that reduces water consumption and enhances the overall comfort of the environment. The architectural layout not only supports individual lifestyles but also encourages a collective sense of belonging.

For further insights into the Garden Houses project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and deeper explorations of the design ideas, readers are encouraged to examine the full project presentation. This resource provides additional context and detail that highlights the project's thoughtful integration of architecture and nature.
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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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