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Passive Cooling Through Traditional Wind Towers with Stucco and Lattice Screens

Passive Cooling Through Traditional Wind Towers with Stucco and Lattice Screens
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Utilizing traditional wind towers and intricate lattice screens, this residence achieves effective passive cooling, seamlessly integrating modern living with sustainable design principles in a harsh climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a wind tower for natural ventilation to enhance indoor comfort.
02
Incorporates traditional lattice screens to promote airflow while providing privacy.
03
Features a modern stucco façade that complements the local architectural heritage.
04
Integrates smart technology for real-time climate monitoring and energy efficiency.
05
Strategically designed courtyards foster indoor-outdoor connectivity and greenery.

### Project Overview

**Title:** Al-Barajil
**Location:** United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Al-Barajil exemplifies a modern interpretation of traditional Emirati architecture, prominently featuring a wind tower, or Al-Barajil. This architectural element is designed to address the region's extreme climatic conditions through efficient passive ventilation and the integration of advanced technologies. The intent of the design is to create a harmonious balance between cultural heritage and contemporary living.

### Architectural Strategy

**Ventilation and Aesthetic Integration**
The wind tower is a pivotal feature, employing passive pressure mechanics to naturally cool indoor environments. This thoughtful adaptation of historical architecture supports energy efficiency and temperature regulation. Additionally, a minimalist design approach refines the traditional wind tower, ensuring it serves as both a functional and visually appealing component of the structure.

**Material Selection and User Experience**
The building's exterior incorporates durable materials designed for the local climate. A smooth stucco finish presents a modern façade, while decorative lattice screens—echoing traditional Mashrabiya—facilitate airflow and privacy. The main entrance's wooden elements introduce warmth to the overall aesthetic. Interior spaces are thoughtfully laid out, enhancing connectivity between indoor and outdoor areas through courtyards and terraces. Living spaces are bright and airy, featuring strategically placed windows, while private quarters are designed to foster intimacy and balance. Functional service zones are streamlined, allowing for efficiency in daily living activities. Integrating smart sensors and modern HVAC systems alongside natural ventilation underscores a commitment to sustainability and energy conservation.

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Enter an open architecture
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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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