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Passive Solar Retreat With Autoclaved Aerated Concrete and Natural Wood Shutters

Authors:
Amgad Aly Fahmy Farghal, Hatem Akmal Mohamed Ahmed Soliman
Passive Solar Retreat With Autoclaved Aerated Concrete and Natural Wood Shutters

Project in-detail

Utilizing autoclaved aerated concrete and natural wood shutters, this desert retreat emphasizes passive solar design and seamless outdoor integration, creating a tranquil space for reflection and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes autoclaved aerated concrete for enhanced thermal efficiency.
02
Incorporates natural wood shutters for effective climate control.
03
Features a modular design that supports future expansion needs.
04
Aligns with the east-west axis to maximize passive solar benefits.
05
Seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor spaces to promote tranquility.
The project "The Quiet Haven" is an architectural endeavor located in the Arabian Desert of the United Arab Emirates. It is designed as a retreat that prioritizes personal reflection and tranquility while incorporating modern design principles. The structure aims to harmonize with its environment, offering a balance between contemporary luxury and traditional aspects of local culture. By focusing on efficiency and sustainability, this residential project serves as both a home and a sanctuary for its occupants.

One of the defining characteristics of "The Quiet Haven" is its thoughtful integration of natural elements, achieved through careful planning and design. The layout is organized across two levels, maximizing space usage while maintaining a fluid connection with the surrounding landscape. The ground floor includes communal areas such as the kitchen, living room, and pantry, which seamlessly extend to outdoor living spaces, promoting an indoor-outdoor lifestyle. The first floor features private quarters, accommodating four bedrooms and ancillary facilities, thereby ensuring privacy for family members.

The architectural design embraces specific approaches that differentiate it from conventional residential projects. The alignment of the building along the east-west axis is a strategic decision intended to optimize passive solar design. This orientation enhances natural light penetration and improves energy efficiency, significantly reducing reliance on artificial lighting and cooling systems. The façade employs large glazed windows that offer expansive views of the meticulously landscaped garden while facilitating cross-ventilation—crucial for mitigating the harsh desert climate.

In terms of material selection, "The Quiet Haven" utilizes Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) for the main structure, known for its lightweight properties and thermal efficiency. Paulownia wood shutters serve both aesthetic and functional purposes, enhancing the home's appearance and providing effective light control. Furthermore, the integration of Photovoltaic Modules on the roof underscores the commitment to energy efficiency, allowing the house to harness solar energy for its electrical needs.

Another notable feature of the project is its modular design strategy, accommodating future expansion. This approach enables the building to adapt to evolving family needs, allowing additional phases of construction without compromising the original architectural integrity. The interplay of form and function in "The Quiet Haven" is intentional, as the design responds to both the physical environment and the lifestyle requirements of its occupants, creating a truly unique residential experience.

For a comprehensive exploration of "The Quiet Haven," including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to delve into the full project presentation. Engage with the architectural details that are central to understanding how this project sets a new precedent for residential design in desert environments.
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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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