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Natural Ventilation and Solar Design in Recycled Concrete Living Spaces

Author:
Ashfaaq Sulaiman Mohamed Ali Mohamed Ali Usman
Natural Ventilation and Solar Design in Recycled Concrete Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing recycled concrete and natural ventilation methods, this residential design integrates traditional cultural elements with modern sustainability principles to create functional living spaces that promote community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled concrete blocks for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Incorporates windcatchers for natural ventilation throughout the home.
03
Features a dedicated Majlis, reflecting traditional Emirati hospitality.
04
Includes solar panels for energy efficiency tailored to regional climate.
05
Employs modular design for adaptability to evolving family needs.

### Overview

Located in the United Arab Emirates, this residential development aims to integrate contemporary design with traditional Emirati values while prioritizing sustainable practices. The architectural approach is characterized by modularity and flexibility, ensuring that living spaces can adapt to the specific cultural and environmental requirements of the region.

### Spatial Organization and Community Engagement

The design comprises two levels, strategically organized to enhance functionality and connectivity with outdoor environments. The ground floor contains an open-plan living area, dining space, and kitchen, promoting an effective flow between the interior and exterior. Essential to the layout is the inclusion of a **Majlis**, which fosters social interaction and aligns with local hospitality customs. The separation of family and guest entrances reinforces privacy, reflecting cultural norms while still encouraging community engagement. Natural landscaping, balconies, and an outdoor pool contribute to a lifestyle that emphasizes relaxation and socialization.

### Material Selection and Sustainability Initiatives

A commitment to sustainability is evident in the choice of materials and construction techniques. The structure employs **recycled concrete** for its insulated modular walls, which enhance thermal efficiency. **Solar panels** are integrated to harness renewable energy, providing significant energy savings. The innovative use of **windcatchers** allows for natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. Additionally, adaptable window coverings accommodate seasonal changes in thermal comfort. The exterior is finished with **wood composite cladding**, which balances aesthetic appeal with durability, highlighting a harmonious relationship between the home and its surrounding environment.

Various landscaping materials and native plant species are incorporated to promote biodiversity within an urban setting, further underscoring the project's environmental responsibility. The design sets a precedent for residential architecture that respects cultural heritage while addressing the pressing need for sustainable living solutions.

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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
competition now

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