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Perforated Clay Bricks and Sustainable Airflow Define a Modern Family Dwelling

Authors:
Hesham Khalil Shaaban Kahlil, Rewan Hesham Khalil Shaaban
Perforated Clay Bricks and Sustainable Airflow Define a Modern Family Dwelling

Project in-detail

Utilizing perforated clay bricks and a strategically integrated wind tower, this modern family dwelling fosters natural airflow while seamlessly blending communal and private living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a wind tower for enhanced natural ventilation.
02
Designed with a sunken majlis for communal gatherings.
03
Features exterior façades of perforated clay bricks for thermal regulation.
04
Utilizes large glass openings to connect indoor and outdoor spaces.
05
Includes flexible layouts to accommodate evolving family needs.
The Alef House is a contemporary architectural project designed to facilitate extended family living. It embodies a thoughtful response to the shifting dynamics of family structures and seeks to enhance the communal experience while offering private spaces. The layout features a well-defined separation between communal areas and private quarters, addressing functional needs in a single dwelling.

The design emphasizes the importance of connection between family members through strategic spatial organization. This is achieved by placing communal spaces such as the outdoor sunken majlis and expansive living areas in proximity, promoting interactions while providing family members with the comfort of private retreats. The ambition of this project lies in its dual focus on fostering familial ties and providing residents with flexible living arrangements that can adapt to changing needs.

Unique Materials and Sustainability Features

The Alef House incorporates a selection of materials that reflect both modern aesthetics and traditional practices. The use of perforated clay bricks in the façade allows for thermal regulation and enhances ventilation, essential for maintaining comfortable indoor environments in hot climates. Wood accents, particularly in the louvers, provide a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, adding depth to the architectural expression. Large glass elements serve to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, inviting natural light and encouraging a sense of openness.

Sustainability is a key consideration in the design approach. The implementation of a wind tower facilitates natural ventilation throughout the home, minimizing reliance on mechanical systems. An integrated rainwater harvesting system and the strategic use of solar panels further underscore the project's commitment to environmental responsibility. These elements not only reduce the ecological footprint of the building but also contribute to the overall well-being of its inhabitants.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

The spatial arrangement within the Alef House is characterized by a clear distinction between public and private zones. The left block, dedicated to service areas, and the right block, which accommodates social spaces, work in harmony to create a holistic living experience. The design incorporates double-height ceilings in communal areas, enhancing the sense of volume and light. Furthermore, flexible layouts allow for potential future modifications, catering to the evolving needs of family members.

Architectural sections reveal the meticulous attention to detail in the interplay of various spaces. The architectural plan optimizes natural light penetration while maintaining privacy in bedrooms and service areas. The outdoor majlis is designed as a multifunctional space that not only serves as a gathering area but also acts as an environmental buffer, creating a pleasant microclimate. This careful consideration of spatial dynamics demonstrates the ability of architecture to address both social interaction and individual comfort within a single dwelling.

To gain deeper insights into the Alef House project, explore the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs that illustrate how these elements come together to create a cohesive living environment.
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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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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