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Natural Ventilation Through Windcatchers in a Sustainable Brick and Concrete Residence

Author:
Dam Ho
Natural Ventilation Through Windcatchers in a Sustainable Brick and Concrete Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating traditional windcatchers and sustainable materials like brick and concrete, the residence optimizes natural ventilation and indoor comfort while promoting communal living in a contemporary urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional windcatchers for optimized airflow and natural cooling.
02
Utilizes locally sourced brick for thermal stability and cultural resonance.
03
Features a flexible open-plan layout that encourages social interaction among residents.
04
Includes a rainwater harvesting system to promote water conservation practices.
05
Integrates landscaped courtyards to enhance biodiversity and outdoor living spaces.

### Architectural Design Report: New Dubai and a Future-Oriented Residence

#### Overview

Two architectural projects focus on urban development in Dubai, each showcasing the city’s ambition to harmonize modernity with its cultural heritage. The first project centers on the vision for New Dubai, a dynamic urban landscape characterized by modern architecture and strategic planning. This development includes notable structures and newly created districts that reflect the city's aspirations as a global center for commerce and innovation, while the second project presents a residential design that emphasizes sustainability and integration with the natural environment.

#### Spatial Strategy

New Dubai's master plan illustrates an organized urban layout that integrates various functions—residential, commercial, and recreational spaces—within a cohesive framework. The design employs a careful arrangement of parks, transportation networks, and essential infrastructure to support both connectivity and quality of life. The skyline, dominated by contemporary designs, articulates the city’s dual narrative of historical significance intertwined with future aspirations, encouraging a dialogue between traditional and modern elements.

In the future-oriented residence, attention is given to the spatial connectivity between public and private areas to foster communal interactions while maintaining personal privacy. The residence incorporates a blend of open-plan layouts and delineated spaces, maximizing natural light and cross-ventilation.

#### Materiality and Sustainability

A modern aesthetic is achieved in New Dubai through the use of primary materials such as glass, steel, and concrete, which facilitate natural lighting and air circulation. This material palette not only supports contemporary design but also addresses the climatic demands of the region.

In contrast, the residential project employs sustainable building practices through the integration of traditional materials such as brick, complemented by concrete and extensive glass features. The inclusion of features like wind towers (Barjeel) for natural cooling, as well as a specialized drainage system, highlights the project's commitment to environmental stewardship. Special attention is given to green spaces, providing both aesthetic and health benefits, further reinforcing the design's integration with the natural environment.

The juxtaposition of advanced material technology and sustainable practices illustrates a cohesive approach to architecture that prioritizes resilience and well-being amid Dubai's rapid urbanization.

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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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