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Perforated Metal Cladding and Travertine Facades Defining Sustainable Urban Living in a Courtyard Residence

Author:
Vadim Martynov
Perforated Metal Cladding and Travertine Facades Defining Sustainable Urban Living in a Courtyard Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing perforated metal cladding and travertine facades, the design creates a dialogue between modernity and tradition, optimizing natural ventilation and light while serving as a contemporary family residence in the heart of Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Facades utilize unique travertine for thermal efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates perforated metal screens inspired by traditional Arab patterns.
03
Courtyard design enhances natural ventilation and outdoor connectivity.
04
Upper level features outdoor terraces, expanding usable living space.
05
Solar panels integrated into the roof optimize energy efficiency.

### Project Overview
Situated in Dubai, a city renowned for its rapid transformation from a fishing village to a global metropolis, the BEHOUSE project addresses contemporary residential needs while honoring the region's rich heritage. The design seeks to integrate modern living conditions with traditional values, offering a residential environment that reflects both the historical and cultural context of its location.

### Volume Configuration and Spatial Dynamics
The architectural strategy features two distinct volumes: the lower level, constructed of travertine to maintain a connection with the region's geological history, and the upper volume clad in glass and metal, representing contemporary design principles. This duality fosters both a dialogue between past and present and creates a layered visual effect that enhances the overall aesthetic. The building's layout employs a shift between levels that incorporates a courtyard at the ground level and a covered terrace above, allowing for improved air circulation and visual links among spaces. This design promotes a clear functional zoning between public and private areas, encouraging both privacy and communal interaction.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
Key materials utilized in the BEHOUSE project include travertine, glass, and copper-like metal panels. The travertine provides not only thermal benefits but also aesthetic warmth, while the glass facilitates transparency and outdoor connectivity, contributing to energy efficiency. The metal panels serve as an innovative cladding solution, enhancing the structure's modern character. Additionally, the internal partitions utilize lightweight cement and gypsum board, ensuring structural integrity while optimizing space. The design emphasizes sustainability through the incorporation of renewable energy sources, efficient drainage systems, and thoughtful insulation strategies, exemplifying a responsible approach to architectural development within an urban setting.

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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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