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Natural Ventilation and Prefabricated Panels Define Sustainable Urban Living in Dubai

Authors:
Todor Petrov Tsigov, Polina Boykova Kyoseva
Natural Ventilation and Prefabricated Panels Define Sustainable Urban Living in Dubai

Project in-detail

Utilizing barjeel wind towers and prefabricated panels, the design enhances natural ventilation while incorporating green terraces to create a sustainable residential space in Dubai’s urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes barjeel wind towers for efficient passive cooling.
02
Incorporates prefabricated panels for reduced construction waste.
03
Features integrated green terraces that enhance biodiversity.
04
Exhibits textured concrete finishes that echo traditional craftsmanship.
05
Arranges communal space around a central courtyard for enhanced social interaction.

### Overview

Located in Dubai, the project synthesizes traditional Arabian architecture with contemporary design practices. Drawing inspiration from the courtyard house and the wind tower (barjeel), this design integrates these elements into a modern living environment that responds to the needs of today’s residents. The intent of the design is to create adaptable, modular living spaces that maintain a connection to cultural heritage while addressing sustainability.

### Spatial Strategy and Functionality

The architectural layout revolves around a central courtyard, serving as a communal space that encourages social interaction among residents while providing privacy to individual living quarters located within dual towers. The distinct separation of residential zones into family and guest areas ensures security and comfort, with independent access points facilitating privacy. Service areas are strategically placed to support household activities without disrupting the main living spaces, promoting efficient use of the overall layout. The integration of four designated outdoor spaces—front, meal, service, and courtyard—encourages outdoor living and community engagement.

### Material Choices and Sustainability

Material selection is pivotal to the project’s sustainability goals and aesthetic coherence. The use of prefabricated panels streamlines construction and minimizes waste, aligning with contemporary environmental practices. Concrete is employed for its structural integrity, while textured finishes evoke traditional masonry aesthetics. Large expanses of glass enhance natural lighting and foster a connection with the exterior environment. The inclusion of solar panels on rooftops promotes energy efficiency, and strategically placed vegetation through roof gardens and courtyards supports biodiversity and microclimatic control.

Unique design elements, such as wind chimneys inspired by traditional barjeel structures, facilitate natural ventilation, contributing to the indoor climate’s comfort without relying heavily on mechanical cooling systems. Sun shading devices further protect the structure from harsh sunlight, addressing the climatic challenges of the region.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
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