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Perforated Facade and Bio-Cement Structure in a Sustainable Desert Residence

Author:
Hadi Al Gharib
Perforated Facade and Bio-Cement Structure in a Sustainable Desert Residence

Project in-detail

The use of a perforated facade and bio-cement in a desert residence enhances natural ventilation while minimizing heat gain, successfully addressing the challenges of extreme climate as a functional family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building incorporates a double-skin facade that enhances natural ventilation while reducing solar heat gain.
02
Utilizes locally sourced sand aggregate in its construction to minimize environmental impact.
03
Features a solar chimney that facilitates passive cooling through natural air circulation.
04
Integrates an underground water tank designed for future expansions and sustainable water management.
05
Adapts traditional Emirati architectural forms to meet modern living requirements in an urban context.

**Overview of alHawa House**
alHawa House, located in Dubai, UAE, is a contemporary villa that embodies the blend of Emirati culture with modern architectural practices. Completed in 2023, this private residence focuses on creating a functional and aesthetically minimalist environment. The design responds to the harsh climatic conditions of Dubai through innovative cooling techniques and natural ventilation, aligning with its intent to foster a comfortable living space that respects local traditions while integrating technological advancements.

**Thermal Comfort and Natural Ventilation**
The design strategy employs a multi-layered cooling approach that harmonizes historic and current methods of thermal regulation. Key features include a solar chimney that promotes natural air circulation and wind towers that enhance airflow within living spaces. A shallow water feature beneath the house aids in cooling through evaporative processes, further addressing the needs of a desert climate. These elements collectively contribute to a climate-responsive architecture that prioritizes energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

**Structural and Material Considerations**
The structural system of alHawa House utilizes precast concrete components—including columns, slabs, and walls—ensuring efficient and cost-effective construction. The selection of materials underscores a commitment to sustainability, incorporating brutish concrete, reflective metals, and locally sourced sand aggregates. This design intention is complemented by a double-skin facade that not only facilitates thermal management but also protects against environmental elements like sand and dust, essential in the Dubai desert. The house’s expandable design allows adaptability in response to changing family needs, reinforcing the concept of versatility in urban living.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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