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Natural Stone Facade Complemented by Traditional Mashrabiya in a Sustainable Family Residence

Authors:
Zainab Alami, Fidah Abdul Razak
Natural Stone Facade Complemented by Traditional Mashrabiya in a Sustainable Family Residence

Project in-detail

The integration of a natural stone facade and traditional mashrabiya screens creates a harmonious balance between sustainability and cultural heritage in a residence designed for family living and social gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates traditional mashrabiya screens, enhancing privacy while allowing airflow.
02
Natural stone facade provides thermal regulation suited for the regional climate.
03
Multi-purpose communal areas are strategically placed to foster family interactions.
04
Sustainable landscaping utilizes native plants to support local biodiversity.
05
Solar panels are integrated into the roof design to optimize energy efficiency.
The architectural project “An Emirati Home” is a residential design situated in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This project reflects the cultural heritage and social customs inherent to Emirati life. Centered around the concept of hospitality, the design integrates traditional elements with contemporary architectural practices to create a functional living environment for families.

The residence includes communal spaces that reinforce family interaction and gatherings, particularly through the incorporation of the majlis, a traditional meeting area. This element serves as both a social hub and a formal reception space, emphasizing the cultural significance of hospitality in Emirati society. The design arrangements promote an efficient flow between spaces while ensuring privacy in more personal areas of the home.

Sustainable design practices are employed throughout the project. Strategies such as the installation of solar panels and low-flow water fixtures reflect a commitment to environmental responsibility. Native plant landscaping further augments sustainability initiatives while enhancing the home’s overall aesthetic.

The architectural design utilizes a variety of materials, including reinforced concrete for structural reliability, marble for its elegant finishes, wood for warmth and texture in the interiors, and glass to introduce natural light and create visual connections to the outdoors. The combination of these materials enriches the overall sensory experience, establishing a defined identity for the home.

Design Features and Unique Approaches

What distinguishes “An Emirati Home” from other residential designs is its emphasis on integrating nature within the living environment. Courtyards and gardens are strategically incorporated, providing tranquil spaces for relaxation and outdoor activities. This relationship between the built and natural environments enhances the quality of life for residents and allows for a seamless connection with the local climate.

The arrangement of spaces is carefully considered, with public areas such as the majlis positioned to encourage social interactions, while private rooms are thoughtfully secluded. The vertical hierarchy of the home further underscores these distinctions, catering to the functional needs of family dynamics while preserving cultural values.

Architectural Elements and Functional Aspects

The architectural details contribute significantly to the overall functionality of the home. Large windows facilitate natural light intake and provide ventilation, which is crucial in warm climates. High ceilings in communal areas create an open and inviting atmosphere, whereas the use of traditional mashrabiya screens provides privacy and reduces heat while maintaining airflow.

Internally, multi-purpose areas allow flexibility for various family activities, accommodating everything from daily dining to formal gatherings. The design considers the distinct needs of modern Emirati families, ensuring that the home functions as a comfortable living space while honoring cultural traditions.

To fully appreciate the intricacies of “An Emirati Home,” readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for additional details. Architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs provide further insights into the thoughtful design strategies and material choices that characterize this project. Understanding these elements enhances recognition of the architectural ideas that make this residence a notable example of contemporary Emirati architecture.
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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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