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Perforated Brick Façade and Sustainable Gray-Water Systems in Urban Family Housing

Authors:
Silviu Musteata, Mina Sava, Veronica Sava
Perforated Brick Façade and Sustainable Gray-Water Systems in Urban Family Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing a perforated brick façade and an integrated gray-water recycling system, this residential development optimizes energy efficiency and communal living in an urban context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated brick façade enhances natural ventilation while maintaining privacy.
02
Integrated gray-water recycling system reduces water consumption for landscaping.
03
Flexible interior layouts adapt to changing family needs over time.
04
Central courtyard fosters community engagement among residents.
05
Use of insulated clay blocks ensures high thermal performance in a hot climate.
The "Dubai Future House" is a residential architectural project that embodies modern living concepts tailored to the unique climate and urban context of Dubai. This project focuses on integrating sustainability, functionality, and community-oriented design principles. The layout consists of interlinked homes surrounding a central courtyard, which serves as a communal space fostering interaction while ensuring privacy for residents. Through a careful selection of materials and innovative design approaches, the project addresses current urban living challenges, particularly in terms of environmental performance and social connectivity.

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
A defining aspect of the "Dubai Future House" is its commitment to sustainability. The project utilizes passive design strategies, including orientation and shading techniques, to maximize natural ventilation and daylighting. The perforated brick façade not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also facilitates natural airflow and reduces reliance on mechanical cooling systems. Additionally, the insulated clay block systems provide thermal performance, minimizing energy needs for heating and cooling. These elements demonstrate a strong focus on reducing the project's overall carbon footprint and operational costs.

Multifunctional Community Spaces
The design emphasizes the creation of multifunctional community spaces that encourage social interaction. The central courtyard functions as a community gathering area, promoting a sense of belonging among residents. Various housing types, including G+1 units and townhouses, are thoughtfully incorporated into the overall design, providing diverse living options that accommodate various family structures. The integration of gardens, terraces, and a rooftop garden further enhances residents' experience with nature, promoting ecological diversity and relaxation.

Contemporary Architectural Materiality
Material choice plays a crucial role in the architectural expression of the "Dubai Future House." The use of prefabricated concrete elements enhances construction efficiency and reduces waste, aligning with the project’s sustainability goals. Wood accents are strategically employed in shading devices and decorative features, introducing warmth and texture that contrasts with the more utilitarian elements of the design. This careful selection of materials not only improves aesthetic quality but also enhances the longevity and durability of the structures in the challenging climate of Dubai.

The "Dubai Future House" represents an innovative approach to modern residential architecture, effectively combining sustainability, community-oriented living, and contemporary design principles. To gain a deeper understanding of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas that shape this compelling initiative.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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