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Natural Stone Facades and Expansive Glass Openings in a Family Home Design

Author:
Asma Saeed Rashed Alaskar Alnuaimi
Natural Stone Facades and Expansive Glass Openings in a Family Home Design

Project in-detail

With its natural stone facades and extensive use of glass that blurs the line between indoor and outdoor living, the design creates a welcoming environment perfectly suited for modern family life.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of natural stone facades enhances thermal performance while blending with the surrounding landscape.
02
Expansive glass openings create unobstructed views and maximize natural light throughout the home.
03
A bent A-frame design promotes structural efficiency while adding a distinctive aesthetic element.
04
Incorporates multifunctional outdoor spaces that seamlessly connect with interior living areas.
05
Sustainable materials, including timber and stone, reflect a commitment to environmental responsibility.
The architectural project in discussion presents a thoughtfully designed residential building that embodies modern living while delicately responding to contextual nuances of its geographical setting. The design effectively reflects a commitment to functional and aesthetic values, meeting the needs of contemporary family dynamics.

At its core, the project represents the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor environments, encouraging an enhanced interaction with nature and the surrounding landscape. This relationship is established through expansive glass façades and strategically placed openings that facilitate natural light penetration and air circulation, contributing to energy efficiency and comfort. The building features a harmonious blend of living spaces that prioritize both social interactions and privacy, indicative of the modern approach to family architecture.

Key components of the project include an expansive family hall that serves as the central hub of the home. Positioned to maximize natural light and views to the outside, this space fosters a sense of togetherness while allowing for easy movement to adjacent areas like the kitchen and dining room. The dining area is designed for both functionality and conviviality, encouraging gatherings and interactions, further enhanced by its proximity to the kitchen.

The presence of a dedicated majlis reflects cultural traditions, providing a spacious and inviting area for guests. This design choice reinforces the importance of hospitality in the cultural context, while also showcasing an understanding of the social fabric that defines modern family life. Equally, the incorporation of a gym underscores the project’s focus on wellness, catering to the health-conscious occupants in a manner that fits seamlessly into the home environment.

Outdoor living is a significant aspect of the project, highlighted by the inclusion of a pool area that encourages leisure and social activities. This feature is not merely an aesthetic addition; it promotes a lifestyle of relaxation and enjoyment, designed to complement indoor spaces. The surrounding deck areas facilitate further outdoor engagement, offering spaces for sunbathing, lounging, and informal gatherings.

The first floor provides a dedicated retreat for family members, featuring private bedrooms and separate en-suite bathrooms. This arrangement allows for individual privacy, striking a balance between shared family life and personal space. The thoughtful positioning of these private areas, along with a secondary family hall, reflects an understanding of contemporary living preferences, where work and leisure are increasingly merged into the home environment.

Materiality plays a critical role in the project’s expression. While specific materials are not detailed, one can infer the likely use of natural stones such as limestone or marble for flooring and facades, providing durability and visual appeal. The integration of glass elements not only enhances the aesthetic quality but also reinforces the connection between the interior and exterior spaces. Timber accents may be employed in decking and furnishings, adding warmth and texture that enrich the overall ambiance.

What sets this project apart is its commitment to blending practicality with cultural sensitivity. The design does not merely aim for visual appeal but aspires to create a genuine living experience that respects traditions while embracing modern functionality. This synthesis is particularly evident in the majlis, which honors historical architectural ideals while accommodating contemporary urban lifestyles.

The architectural plans, sections, and overall design approach of this project invite viewers to engage with its various elements deeply. The strategic choices made in layout and material selection promote an environment that is at once inviting and functional, embodying the essence of modern family living. Exploring the detailed architectural designs allows for a better understanding of the nuanced thinking behind each aspect of the project, encouraging readers to appreciate the thoughtful articulation of space and form.

Readers are encouraged to delve further into the architectural plans and sections presented, as they provide valuable insights into the design processes and ideas that shape this project, reflecting both contemporary architectural trends and timeless values of home and community.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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
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