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Perforated Solar Shading and Limestone Facades Defining Community Living in the Heart of the UAE

Author:
Ahmed Elamin
Perforated Solar Shading and Limestone Facades Defining Community Living in the Heart of the UAE

Project in-detail

Incorporating perforated solar shading and durable limestone facades, the design facilitates a harmonious blend of communal living and privacy, tailored for multi-family use in the UAE's unique environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a central courtyard that enhances communal interaction while ensuring privacy.
02
Utilizes perforated metal panels for solar shading and ventilation, reducing energy consumption.
03
Constructed with limestone, providing both thermal insulation and a connection to local traditions.
04
Features large glass facades that maximize natural light and outdoor views.
05
Designed to reflect the unity of the seven emirates through spatial organization and functionality.
The 7 Villa is an architectural project situated in the United Arab Emirates, conceptualized to embody the unity of the seven emirates. This design provides both communal spaces and private quarters, fostering a harmonious living environment that accommodates the needs of multiple families under one roof. The villa is composed of various carefully arranged spaces aimed at enhancing functionality and comfort while maintaining privacy.

Space Allocation and Functionality
The villa features a well-defined spatial organization across two levels. The ground floor is dedicated to shared living areas, including a spacious family living room, open kitchen, dining area, and a traditional majlis, which serves as a space for hospitality and cultural gatherings. The first floor accommodates private living quarters comprising a master bedroom suite with an adjoining dressing area, in addition to three supplementary bedrooms, ensuring adequate sleeping arrangements for all inhabitants. A second floor is designed for utility, housing a gym and laundry facilities, which streamline daily living activities.

Unique Design Approaches
One of the standout features of The 7 Villa is its architectural layout, which reflects the cultural significance of the number seven. The inner courtyard serves as a focal point that encourages interaction among residents while preserving individual privacy. This design choice highlights the dual purpose of promoting family bonding alongside respecting personal space.

Material selection also plays a crucial role in the project’s overall functionality. The use of limestone for the façade offers thermal insulation while maintaining a connection to local architectural traditions. Large glass panels maximize natural light penetration, enhancing indoor environments with views of the surrounding gardens. Additionally, perforated metal panels provide shading and ventilation, strategically mitigating solar gain and contributing to energy efficiency in the desert climate.

Integration of Outdoor Spaces
The design emphasizes the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, promoting a seamless flow between gardens and living areas. Outdoor seating arrangements are thoughtfully positioned to foster family gatherings and leisure activities. The incorporation of courtyards not only enhances aesthetics but also allows for natural light and air circulation, creating comfortable microclimates for various outdoor functions.

For a comprehensive understanding of The 7 Villa, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, we encourage readers to explore the project's presentation further. Detailed insights into the architecture and design elements can provide a deeper appreciation for the thoughtful approaches embedded in this residential project.
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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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