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Passive Cooling Through Traditional Wind Towers and Limestone Facades in Sustainable Residential Design

Authors:
Shweta Krishnan, Bilal Barakat
Passive Cooling Through Traditional Wind Towers and Limestone Facades in Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Incorporating traditional wind towers and locally sourced limestone, the design achieves effective passive cooling while promoting sustainable living in a modern residential space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes traditional wind towers for natural ventilation and passive cooling.
02
Incorporates locally sourced limestone to reduce environmental impact.
03
Features modular design elements that allow for future expansion.
04
Employs greywater recycling to support sustainable water management.
05
Integrates perforated screens that reflect cultural motifs while enhancing privacy.
The architectural project centers around an innovative design that aims to combine traditional building techniques with contemporary sustainability practices. It serves as a residential structure that promotes self-sufficiency, while being deeply rooted in the cultural history of its geographical context, specifically within the Middle East. By integrating passive technologies and natural resources, the project addresses climate adaptability while fostering a sense of community.

Prominent Features and Unique Design Approaches

One key feature of this design is the incorporation of wind towers, a traditional element in the region’s architecture. These structures facilitate natural ventilation by capturing and cooling air before it enters living spaces, significantly reducing dependence on mechanical air conditioning. The strategic height and position of the wind towers enhance airflow, optimizing indoor climate control.

The project also integrates a rainwater harvesting system, effectively leveraging local weather patterns. This system minimizes external water reliance and supports irrigation, showcasing a practical approach to resource management. The modular design allows for future expansions, catering to evolving family needs without compromising aesthetic coherence.

Another distinctive aspect is the use of perforated shades, which are not only functional in regulating light and heat but also contribute to the architectural language by reflecting traditional motifs. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth to the design, enhancing the occupants' experience.

Sustainable Practices and Community Orientation

The project employs a range of sustainable practices, including the utilization of locally sourced limestone and wood to reduce the carbon footprint during construction. Photovoltaic cells are integrated into the roofing system, facilitating energy independence and supporting modern sustainability goals. Greywater recycling infrastructure is critical for enhancing water conservation, enabling efficient reuse of domestic water for landscape irrigation.

Moreover, the design fosters community interaction through shared outdoor spaces and multi-functional courtyards, places designed for social gathering and engagement while maintaining personal privacy. By creating distinct but connected spaces, the design prioritizes both communal activities and individual retreat.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural nuances and structural elements embedded in this project, readers are encouraged to explore detailed architectural plans, sections, and design proposals that illustrate the innovative pathways this project takes toward harmonious living. Engaging with these elements will provide further insights into the architectural ideas and methodologies that make this project noteworthy.
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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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