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Perforated Concrete Facade and Native Landscaping Enhance a Sustainable Urban Oasis

Author:
Siarhei Karoza
Perforated Concrete Facade and Native Landscaping Enhance a Sustainable Urban Oasis

Project in-detail

The integration of a perforated concrete facade and xeriscaped native landscaping creates a sustainable oasis that facilitates communal living in an arid environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of perforated concrete panels allows for controlled natural light and ventilation throughout the interior spaces.
02
A central courtyard design fosters communal interaction while providing a private outdoor area.
03
Sustainable landscaping incorporates native plant species to reduce water usage in an arid climate.
04
Cross-laminated timber is utilized in structural elements, enhancing both stability and aesthetic quality.
05
The project's orientation optimizes solar gain and passive cooling, minimizing energy consumption.
The "House of the Future: The Oasis in the Desert" is an architectural project located in Dubai, designed to address the unique environmental conditions and cultural context of the region. This design incorporates a contemporary aesthetic paired with functional and sustainable elements, intended to create a harmonious living space that prioritizes both individual comfort and community integration. The project engages various sustainable practices, ensuring that it conserves energy and water resources while promoting a healthy living environment.

Innovative Environmental Design
This project emphasizes sustainability through the integration of advanced environmental strategies. Solar power generation is facilitated by the installation of photovoltaic panels on the roof, designed to harness Dubai’s abundant sunlight. The incorporation of a greywater recycling system exemplifies practical water conservation, allowing for the efficient reuse of water for irrigation purposes. The architectural design also features strategically placed operable windows and shaded outdoor areas to enhance natural ventilation and thermal comfort throughout the year.

Key Architectural Features
The central element of the design is the open-plan layout, which centers around a courtyard that acts as an oasis within the home. This courtyard design not only enhances aesthetics but also contributes to indoor air quality and natural light distribution. The extensive use of glass enhances visual connectivity with the surrounding landscaped areas, while creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. Outdoor features include a garden pond that provides a tranquil focal point and serves as a natural cooling element.

Additional noteworthy features include the use of native flora in landscaping, adhering to xeriscaping principles to minimize water consumption. The structural framework combines concrete and steel that ensures durability, while perforated panels on the facade allow for filtered light and privacy, further enhancing the home's environmental performance.

Architectural Integration and Adaptation
The design approach taken in the "House of the Future" reflects a balance between traditional cultural elements and modern innovation. The utilization of motifs inspired by traditional Islamic architecture manifests in the facade, combining cultural relevance with contemporary material application. This unique integration does not only speak to the local identity but also showcases adaptability for future modifications as family needs evolve.

In summary, the "House of the Future: The Oasis in the Desert" serves as a model for future residential architecture in arid climates. Its innovative environmental design, key architectural features, and integration of cultural sensibilities highlight its significance in the current architectural landscape. For further exploration of this project and to gain insights into architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to review the comprehensive project presentation.
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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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