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Natural Stone Surfaces and Decorative Screens Create a Harmonious Residential Retreat

Author:
Darya Gladysheva
Natural Stone Surfaces and Decorative Screens Create a Harmonious Residential Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing natural stone surfaces and ornamental screens, the residence achieves a cohesive blend of cultural heritage and modern living, resulting in a space that prioritizes sustainability and communal engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes decorative screens for privacy while allowing natural airflow.
02
Incorporates an internal garden that enhances biodiversity and cooling.
03
Features reinforced concrete for structural stability, paired with exposed finishes.
04
Emphasizes cultural motifs through geometric patterns in design elements.
05
Designed for flexible living spaces that adapt to various family needs.
The project "Domus" represents a contemporary residential design that thoughtfully integrates traditional Arabic architectural elements with modern functionality. It features a central atrium that serves as the heart of the living space, promoting natural light and ventilation while creating a communal area that enhances connection among inhabitants. The design prioritizes sustainability and adaptability, addressing the needs of diverse family structures while preserving individual privacy.

Spatial Configuration and Functionality

The layout of "Domus" is designed for practical living. Key areas include an inviting entry that opens into the atrium, surrounded by communal spaces such as the kitchen, dining, and living rooms. This arrangement encourages interaction while maintaining fluidity throughout the home. Private spaces, strategically located around the atrium, ensure comfort and intimacy, accommodating bedrooms and personal retreats that are carefully designed to maximize peace and serenity.

The architectural features include large windows and glass doors that facilitate a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments. The outer areas of the project include gardens and recreational spaces that are easily accessible from the main living areas, enhancing the overall livability of the residence and promoting outdoor engagement.

Unique Design Approaches

What sets "Domus" apart from conventional residential projects is its emphasis on cultural authenticity alongside innovative design strategies. The project incorporates decorative screens that enhance both privacy and natural ventilation, reflecting traditional Islamic architectural practices while integrating modern aesthetics. The use of reinforced concrete provides structural stability, while exposed concrete finishes deliver a contemporary feel.

The inclusion of an internal garden fosters biodiversity and contributes to the home's cooling system, addressing the climatic considerations inherent to its geographical location. This design choice aligns well with the overarching sustainable objectives of the project, ensuring a reduced environmental footprint while enhancing the quality of life for its occupants.

Architectural Elegance Through Materiality

Material selection is integral to the "Domus" project, encompassing reinforced concrete, exposed concrete, glass, decorative screens, and natural stone. Each material has been considered for its structural properties and aesthetic contribution to the overall design. The juxtaposition of hard materials with soft landscaping elements creates a harmonious balance, enhancing both the interior ambiance and the exterior appeal.

The architectural plans and sections reveal a comprehensive approach to space optimization, showcasing a meticulous understanding of how each element interacts within the design. To appreciate the full scope of "Domus," reviewing the architectural designs and ideas in detail will provide further insights into its innovative layout and cultural integration. Exploration of these elements will enhance understanding of how the project marries tradition with modernity, delivering a thoughtful architectural solution for contemporary living.
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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
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