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Passive Cooling Techniques with Exposed Aggregate and Courtyards for Sustainable Family Living

Authors:
Mei Batayneh, Hazem Fu'ad Tawfique Nimri, Devashish Pradhan, Tala Shelbayh, Hala Ziad Ahmad Mansour
Passive Cooling Techniques with Exposed Aggregate and Courtyards for Sustainable Family Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing reinforced concrete and powder-coated steel, the residence incorporates passive cooling strategies and communal courtyards to enhance family living in a sustainable and adaptable environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes passive cooling through strategic airflow systems and wind catchers.
02
Integrates communal courtyard spaces promoting family interaction and outdoor living.
03
Features modular design elements that allow for spatial reconfiguration over time.
04
Employs sustainable materials, including recycled insulation, enhancing ecological performance.
05
Incorporates large glass panels for optimal natural light while maintaining privacy.
The project "The Adaptive House" is a residential architectural design that emphasizes flexibility, culture, and community. Situated in a contemporary urban environment, it aims to redefine how living spaces can accommodate both individual family needs and communal interactions. The design integrates modern aesthetics with elements of traditional Arab architecture, resulting in a structure that is both functional and culturally significant.

The Adaptive House features a modular design that allows the spaces to be rearranged based on dynamic family requirements. The layout prioritizes open floor plans, ensuring fluid transitions between living areas while promoting interaction among family members. A central courtyard serves as the heart of the home, facilitating gatherings and outdoor activities while reinforcing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The strategic use of glass elements allows abundant natural light to permeate the interiors and ensures that views of the surrounding landscape are maximized. Reinforced concrete provides structural durability, complemented by powder-coated steel and exposed aggregate concrete for aesthetic appeal. These materials are selected not only for their practical characteristics but also for their ecological impact, as sustainable construction practices are woven into the design approach.

A notable aspect of The Adaptive House is its emphasis on modularity. The design encourages future expansion, recognizing that families evolve over time. Flexible room configurations and adjustable internal partitions provide the opportunity for spaces to adapt to changing needs. This foresight in design separates this project from conventional approaches and aligns it with modern lifestyle trends.

Another unique feature is the integration of passive cooling techniques, which are essential in the region’s climate. Systems such as wind catchers and solar chimneys enhance the building's energy efficiency, striving for a balance between comfort and sustainability. Additionally, the incorporation of photovoltaic solar panels promotes off-grid capabilities, further underscoring the project's commitment to renewable energy and responsible environmental stewardship.

The Adaptive House also prioritizes accessibility, with ground-level accommodations designed for ease of movement. This aspect is particularly important for accommodating elderly family members, reflecting a broader understanding of family dynamics and interactions.

In summary, The Adaptive House represents a sophisticated approach to contemporary residential architecture. Its emphasis on adaptability, sustainable materials, and cultural integration highlights a thoughtful design that addresses modern living needs. For those interested in exploring this project further, a detailed examination of architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas is recommended to gain deeper insights into its innovative features and construction methodologies.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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