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Perforated Screens and Recycled Concrete Define A Waterfront Residence Emphasizing Natural Ventilation and Community Interaction

Authors:
Mahnoor Naeem Malik , Sameen Javed , Mahrosh Shami
Perforated Screens and Recycled Concrete Define A Waterfront Residence Emphasizing Natural Ventilation and Community Interaction

Project in-detail

Showcasing perforated screens and recycled concrete, the residence integrates natural ventilation and communal spaces, embodying a sustainable approach to modern living along Dubai's waterfront.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled concrete blocks to enhance thermal performance.
02
Incorporates perforated screens for privacy and natural ventilation.
03
Features a central courtyard that promotes cross-breezes and social interaction.
04
Employs a bent A-frame design to optimize structural efficiency and aesthetics.
05
Integrates landscaping with native flora to support local biodiversity.

**Concept Overview**
“Home: A Journey Through Time” explores the evolution of architectural styles in Dubai, contrasting traditional elements with contemporary design principles. The intent is to create a residence that serves as a commentary on lifestyle, cultural heritage, and environmental sustainability. This design emphasizes a shift from enclosed spaces to open arrangements, enhancing the interaction between the built environment and its surroundings while reflecting Dubai's history and modernity.

**Site Context and External Analysis**
Situated in District One Crystal Lagoon, the site benefits from proximity to water bodies and the bustling business district, allowing for attractive views and tranquil living conditions. The architectural form features horizontal and vertical lines, promoting a sense of flow. Noteworthy aspects include layered roofs for rainwater management, courtyards that enhance ventilation and social interaction, and thoughtful landscaping incorporating native species to support biodiversity. The use of sustainable materials enhances the design’s aesthetic and reduces its environmental impact, with recycled concrete blocks, expansive glass facades for natural lighting, and wood finishes adding warmth to the living spaces.

**Internal Spatial Organization and Smart Technologies**
The layout of the residence facilitates a clear flow between private and communal areas. The ground floor comprises public spaces designed for social interaction, while the first floor maintains privacy with its arrangement of bedrooms and shared terraces. Modern smart home systems are integrated to optimize energy consumption and comfort, featuring advanced HVAC controls. The architectural design prioritizes thermal comfort through strategic shading, cavity walls, and double-glazed windows to enhance energy efficiency in response to Dubai’s climate. Notable features include transitional spaces that connect indoor and outdoor environments, glass bridges that enhance natural light and ventilation, and an environmental strategy that utilizes sun angles and wind paths for natural cooling.

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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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