Get inspired!

17,363 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Natural Stone Facade Meets Solar Shading in A Courtyard Residence

Authors:
Fatema Yusuf Ahmed Ali Zayed, Noor Abdulla
Natural Stone Facade Meets Solar Shading in A Courtyard Residence

Project in-detail

Combining a natural stone facade with solar shading and a central courtyard, the residence promotes sustainable living while facilitating community interaction and family gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features a central courtyard that enhances natural ventilation and light throughout the residence.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for durability and to maintain a traditional aesthetic.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to minimize on-site waste and ensure structural efficiency.
04
Design includes integrated solar shading elements to optimize energy performance in a hot climate.
05
Employs local stone for the façade, connecting the structure to its geographic context.
The Pearl House is a residential architectural project located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It aims to marry traditional Emirati architectural elements with modern design principles to create a functional, aesthetically pleasing living space. The design focuses on the importance of community, sustainability, and flexibility, reflecting the cultural identity of the region while addressing contemporary needs.

The Pearl House is structured around a central courtyard, a hallmark of traditional Arabian architecture, which promotes social interaction among family members. This outdoor space is essential for ventilation and light, allowing for natural cooling—a vital aspect in the desert climate of Dubai. The design incorporates distinct geographic and cultural elements that resonate with the history of the UAE, particularly its connection to pearl diving and maritime culture.

The project features a separation of public and private spaces. The ground floor accommodates communal areas, such as living rooms, dining areas, and functional kitchens, while private spaces, including bedrooms and an office, are located on the upper levels. This layout encourages family gatherings while providing residents with privacy when needed.

The Pearl House utilizes a set of unique design approaches that distinguish it from other residential projects. One significant aspect is its emphasis on sustainability. The design strategically places windows and overhangs to facilitate natural light while minimizing heat gain, ultimately reducing reliance on artificial cooling systems. Additionally, the project incorporates smart home technologies aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and user comfort.

Another unique element is the use of local materials. The building employs concrete as its primary structural element, complemented by natural stone and wood in its finishes. This material choice not only aligns with the local aesthetic but also supports environmental sustainability by using resources readily available in the region.

The design also integrates multipurpose furniture and adaptable spaces, allowing residents to modify their living environment based on their needs. This flexibility is especially relevant in urban settings where space is at a premium. The interior design is characterized by simple lines and an open plan, promoting a sense of spaciousness and continuity between indoors and outdoors.

For those interested in delving deeper into the nuances of The Pearl House, it is recommended to explore architectural plans, sections, and design details to gain complete insights into its functionality and architectural strategies. This project exemplifies a thoughtful blend of tradition and modernity, representing a significant step in contemporary Emirati residential architecture.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,363 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy