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Passive Cooling Winds and Clay Bricks in a Contemporary Emirati Villa

Authors:
Bashar Erqsoussi, Eaman Mhd Naim Ireksousi
Passive Cooling Winds and Clay Bricks in a Contemporary Emirati Villa

Project in-detail

Utilizing passive cooling techniques alongside traditional clay bricks, the villa reinterprets Emirati architectural heritage to create a sustainable family residence that integrates natural elements with contemporary living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates passive cooling through traditional Barjeel windcatchers.
02
Constructed with locally sourced clay bricks for optimal thermal performance.
03
Features panoramic glass facades to enhance natural light and views.
04
Includes adaptable spaces for future expansion based on family needs.
05
Integrates outdoor leisure areas, including a gazebo near the swimming pool.

The project is a modern villa situated in New Dubai that merges traditional Emirati architectural elements with contemporary design practices. This villa represents a commitment to cultural heritage while addressing the current needs of modern living. Its design focuses on creating a functional, comfortable space that supports both private and social activities within the household.

One of the primary functions of the villa is to serve as a family residence, with spaces designed to encourage communal interaction while maintaining privacy for individual family members. The ground floor facilitates shared experiences with an open-plan layout that combines living and dining areas, providing easy access to outdoor spaces. The upper floors are dedicated to private areas, including bedrooms, which offer varied views of the surrounding landscape.

The architectural design employs several key elements that emphasize its unique approach. One notable feature is the integration of the Barjeel, a traditional windcatcher that not only enhances the aesthetic but also contributes to passive cooling throughout the villa. This design decision reflects an understanding of local climate conditions and an intent to reduce reliance on mechanical cooling systems.

The materials chosen for construction further add to the villa's distinctive character. Clay bricks have been selected for their thermal insulation properties, offering durability and sustainability. Large glass facades are incorporated throughout the design to maximize natural light and provide unobstructed views of the landscape. Wood accents create a warm and inviting atmosphere, contrasting with the more industrial feel of steel used in structural elements.

Another aspect that makes this project noteworthy is its emphasis on future adaptability. The design allows for expansions and modifications, ensuring the villa can accommodate the changing needs of a family over time. This adaptability is facilitated by a layout that prioritizes flexibility, particularly on the upper floors, which can be adjusted to serve various functions as required.

The integration of outdoor elements into the overall design enhances the living experience. Features such as a gazebo near the swimming pool emphasize the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, promoting a lifestyle that embraces the environment and favors recreational activities.

This villa exemplifies an architectural approach that honors tradition while responding to contemporary needs. The blend of design elements ensures that the structure is not only functional but also reflective of a cultural narrative. For those interested in exploring this project further, it is encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and specific design ideas that illustrate the thoughtful execution of this modern villa.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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