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Ramel and Hempcrete Create Sustainable Family Living in a Modern Courtyard Home

Author:
Iliyan Sevdalinov Angelov
Ramel and Hempcrete Create Sustainable Family Living in a Modern Courtyard Home

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced ramel and Hempcrete, the residence seamlessly integrates traditional Emirati design elements with contemporary construction methods, fostering a sustainable family living environment centered around a central courtyard.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced ramel and Hempcrete for sustainable construction.
02
Features traditional wind towers that enhance passive ventilation.
03
Incorporates a central courtyard to foster family interaction and community.
04
Employs intricate mashrabiya patterns for privacy and light control.
05
Integrates 3D printing technology to reduce waste and increase design precision.
The Barjeel House is an architectural project situated in the United Arab Emirates that seeks to integrate traditional Emirati design elements with modern building practices. It serves as a residence that fosters family interaction while responding effectively to the local climate. This project is notable for its emphasis on sustainability and cultural relevance, channeling historical values through contemporary architectural language.

The Barjeel House boasts a central courtyard that enhances natural ventilation and fosters a sense of community. The symmetrical layout encourages social interaction among family members, with spaces purposefully oriented to facilitate both privacy and collective activity. This design reflects an understanding of the importance of family gatherings in Emirati culture, reinforcing domestic ties while ensuring comfort.

Unique Features and Sustainable Materiality

One of the defining characteristics of the Barjeel House is the incorporation of traditional wind towers, known as barjeels, which allow for passive cooling in the arid climate. This architectural feature not only provides functional benefits but also serves as a lasting symbol of Emirati heritage. The façade of the building employs intricate mashrabiya-style patterns that ensure privacy without sacrificing natural light and airflow.

Sustainability is a central focus of the Barjeel House, which utilizes locally sourced materials. The project incorporates ramel, a material derived from desert sand, and Desert Board PSB made from palm strands for wall cladding and furniture. Hempcrete is utilized within the partition walls, offering excellent thermal insulation while maintaining eco-friendliness. Clay plaster finishes enhance indoor climates by regulating temperature, promoting a more sustainable living environment.

A well-considered approach to architectural designs allows the Barjeel House to balance tradition with modernity. The use of 3D printing techniques in construction demonstrates an effort to innovate while respecting the local context. This technology minimizes waste and allows for precise, custom details, elevating the craftsmanship of the structure without compromising sustainability.

Exploring Architectural Ideas and Details

To gain deeper insights into this project, it is beneficial to examine the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the intricate layout and functions within the Barjeel House. These elements capture the thoughtful distribution of spaces that cater to both private and communal needs. Detailed analyses of the project can provide a clearer understanding of how it harmonizes form and function.

For those interested in architectural innovation and cultural integration, the Barjeel House is a commendable case study. Exploring its presentation will shed light on its unique design features, sustainability efforts, and how it embodies the intersection of history and modern living.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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