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Passive Cooling Minarets Constructed with Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete and Natural Wood Elements

Author:
Mohamed Afzal Ebrahim
Passive Cooling Minarets Constructed with Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete and Natural Wood Elements

Project in-detail

Utilizing an innovative passive cooling system through minarets constructed from glass fiber reinforced concrete and complemented by natural wood, this mosque serves as a communal space for worship and gatherings in Islamabad's unique climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes passive cooling through minaret design to enhance natural ventilation.
02
Constructed with glass fiber reinforced concrete for durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates natural wood elements to foster a warm community atmosphere.
04
Strategically placed skylights maximize natural light and reduce energy use.
05
Designed to accommodate large gatherings while promoting ease of movement.

## Project Overview
Located in Gulberg Greens, Islamabad, Pakistan, the Ayesha Mosque exemplifies a contemporary approach to mosque architecture through its innovative passive cooling techniques. This design reinterprets the traditional minaret, blending cultural significance with modern needs. The mosque incorporates strategies aimed at improving airflow and natural cooling, addressing the climatic challenges of the region.

### Passive Cooling Mechanism
The design centers on the minaret's function as a passive cooling element. By leveraging natural ventilation principles, these structures facilitate airflow, thereby reducing dependence on mechanical cooling systems. This approach emphasizes not only functionality but also the aesthetic and spiritual elements inherent in Islamic design. The layout fosters community interaction through open spaces that encourage social gatherings and tranquility.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
A diverse array of materials has been employed thoughtfully to enhance both function and visual appeal. Steel is utilized for structural integrity, while Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) provides a modern facade that mimics traditional stone. Other materials include Reinforced Concrete for stability, ceramic tiles for decorative purposes, and wood to add warmth to communal areas.

The mosque adheres to sustainable architectural principles by minimizing energy consumption through passive solar design. This results in an interior climate that prioritizes thermal comfort without mechanical ventilation. The thoughtful integration of traditional forms within a contemporary context supports cultural resonance while promoting eco-friendly practices, establishing the mosque as a forward-thinking model in architectural design.

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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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