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Perforated Brick Facade and Green Roof Integration in Sustainable Residential Design

Author:
Marco Chirico
Perforated Brick Facade and Green Roof Integration in Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Incorporating a perforated brick facade and an extensive green roof, the design optimizes sustainability and energy efficiency to create a comfortable family residence in the United Arab Emirates.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a unique courtyard design that enhances natural light and promotes airflow throughout the residence.
02
Utilizes locally sourced perforated brick to improve thermal performance and aesthetics.
03
Features a green roof designed to support native vegetation and enhance biodiversity.
04
Employs cross-ventilation techniques to minimize energy reliance for cooling.
05
Integrates traditional Emirati architectural elements to connect with cultural heritage.

# Architectural Design Project Report: "House of the Future" in the United Arab Emirates

## Overview

The "House of the Future" is located within an urban setting in the United Arab Emirates, designed to explore innovative strategies for sustainable living in harmony with the region's geological and cultural context. This project underscores contemporary residential architecture, drawing from local environmental concerns and societal dynamics to create an integrated living space.

### Conceptual Framework

Central to the design is a commitment to sustainability, prominently featuring sand as an essential material that reflects the local landscape. The approach seeks to establish a relationship between natural and built environments, facilitating a coexistence of traditional architectural elements and modern innovations. Visual representations showcase the versatility of sand in realizing multifunctional spaces, highlighting its capacity to adapt to various structural demands.

### Spatial Organization and Materials

#### Spatial Organization

The architectural layout encompasses three levels, each with distinct functional areas:
- **Ground Floor**: Designed with open communal spaces, including the kitchen and living room, centered around a courtyard that fosters interaction and cohesion among residents.
- **First Floor**: Features private quarters with bedrooms, including a master suite, ensuring comfort and privacy for occupants.
- **Roof Plan**: This level integrates green spaces alongside potential solar energy solutions, extending living areas while promoting sustainability. Circulation throughout the building is facilitated by wide pathways that enhance accessibility and foster an inviting atmosphere.

#### Materials Used

The construction employs a blend of traditional and sustainable materials:
- **Reinforced Concrete** serves as the foundation, providing durability and structural integrity.
- **Perforated Brick** enhances thermal performance and visual appeal, offering insulation that suits local climatic conditions.
- **Natural Finishes** such as eco-friendly plaster and natural stone ground the design in its environment, supporting an organic aesthetic.

### Design Outcomes and Unique Features

The design exemplifies holistic principles, aiming to create a residence that acts as a cultural and environmental anchor. Key features include:

1. **Passive House Concepts**: Incorporation of passive strategies like cross ventilation and abundant natural lighting, aimed at reducing energy dependency while maintaining indoor comfort without relying on extensive mechanical systems.

2. **Integration of Nature**: Landscaping is interwoven into the architectural scheme, facilitating a transition between indoor and outdoor areas. This biophilic approach not only enhances biodiversity but also contributes positively to the well-being of occupants.

3. **Cultural Context**: Reflecting the richness of Emirati heritage, the design innovatively fuses traditional communal living with contemporary needs, evident in its spatial organization and architectural forms that resonate with local customs.

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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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