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Passive Cooling Through Windcatchers and Composite Clay for A Sustainable Residence

Authors:
Hossein Maghami, Elvis Isaac Enebeli, Zi Xuan Lee, Jey Yee Yew
Passive Cooling Through Windcatchers and Composite Clay for A Sustainable Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing composite clay and passive cooling techniques via windcatchers, the residence achieves energy independence and cultural continuity while providing a sustainable living environment in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes printed composite clay for enhanced thermal efficiency and structural integrity.
02
Incorporates hydropanels for water collection and self-sufficiency in a desert climate.
03
Features traditional windcatchers to facilitate passive cooling and natural ventilation.
04
Employs a modular design for flexibility in future expansions and modifications.
05
Maximizes natural light through strategically positioned glass elements in the facade.

### Overview

Located in Dubai, Zephyria represents a thoughtful integration of historical and modern architectural influences, designed to address the future demands of the region. Drawing from the cultural richness of the area, the residence combines traditional Middle Eastern elements, such as wind towers, with contemporary construction techniques and materials. This project aims to create a living environment that honors local heritage while embracing technological advancements.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The choice of materials in Zephyria reflects a commitment to sustainability and adaptability within Dubai's climate. Key components include printed composite clay, known for its structural integrity and thermal efficiency, and photovoltaic panels on the roof that capture solar energy for sustainable power generation. Additionally, hydropanels are incorporated to extract moisture from the air, providing a reliable water supply. Strategic use of glass throughout the design enhances natural lighting while contributing to energy efficiency. Properties such as improved thermal insulation are prioritized to regulate indoor temperatures effectively.

### Innovative Design Strategies

Zephyria employs innovative design strategies to promote both functionality and sustainability. Passive design elements, including windcatchers, facilitate natural ventilation, reducing dependence on mechanical cooling systems. The project's water harvesting system complements traditional storage methods, ensuring a consistent water supply in a region characterized by irregular rainfall. The flexible spatial arrangement encourages social interaction while preserving privacy, with fluid layouts optimizing natural light and ventilation. The design also incorporates a staircase that enhances vertical connectivity, linking different levels of the home to foster ongoing engagement among occupants.

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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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