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Perforated Metal Facades And Hydroponic Gardens Defining Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
Colin Murdock, Michael Murdock
Perforated Metal Facades And Hydroponic Gardens Defining Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing perforated metal facades and hydroponic gardens, the design establishes a sustainable urban living environment that seamlessly integrates community interaction with individual residential needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes perforated metal facades to enhance natural light while reducing heat.
02
Incorporates hydroponic systems into residential units for sustainable food production.
03
Features modular living pods designed for flexibility in space usage.
04
Integrates community gardens to foster social interaction among residents.
05
Employs a unique bent A-frame design for structural innovation and aesthetic appeal.
The architectural project focuses on creating an innovative residential neighborhood in Dubai, prioritizing sustainability and community integration. The design harmonizes with the local context while addressing modern living needs through thoughtful spatial planning and material selections. This effort emphasizes efficient use of land and energy, establishing a model for future urban developments in rapidly growing cities.

The core concept revolves around the notion of a Walled Courtyard, evoking traditional Arabic architecture. The design allocates space for private residences while incorporating communal areas that encourage social interactions among inhabitants. The overall layout is organized to offer efficient circulation and accessibility, ensuring functionality in both individual living units and shared spaces.

Sustainability as Core Principle
A significant aspect of this project is its commitment to environmental sustainability. The design employs solar panels to harness renewable energy, along with a rainwater harvesting system and water purification technology. These elements reduce dependence on external resources and promote a self-sufficient lifestyle.

The integration of hydroponic gardens and vertical planting systems not only contributes to food security but also enhances the aesthetic quality of the living environment. By bringing greenery into the urban landscape, this project promotes the health and well-being of its residents while reducing heat island effects common in dense urban areas.

Architectural Elements and Design Approaches
The architectural features include a blend of modern and traditional elements, evident in the use of geometric perforated panels on the facades. These panels provide passive ventilation and natural lighting, ensuring comfort within the living spaces. The design also employs rounded arches that mirror historical styles while framing views and defining communal spaces.

The modular "living pods" within residences cater to various lifestyle requirements, allowing for versatile configurations as family dynamics shift. This adaptability extends the lifespan of the living spaces and aligns with contemporary needs for multifunctional environments.

Community-Oriented Spaces
A notable focus on community is characterized by shared amenities such as gardens, recreational areas, and adaptive living spaces intended for social gatherings. The neighborhood design facilitates interactions, fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration among residents. Caregiver spaces address the growing demands of multifamily households by integrating essential services within the residential fabric.

This architectural project exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to urban living, transcending the limitations of conventional residential designs. By merging sustainability, community engagement, and adaptive functionality, this project stands out in a landscape of similar developments.

For a deeper understanding of this architectural project, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the innovative ideas embedded within this modern neighborhood.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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