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Rammed Earth and Granite Mashrabiya Create Harmonious Family Residence in Dubai

Authors:
Hadil Ayman Fouad Abdelhamid Elsayed, Soha Osama Mohamed Kassem, Mohammed Ali Ibrahim Ali Mahmoud
Rammed Earth and Granite Mashrabiya Create Harmonious Family Residence in Dubai

Project in-detail

Crafted from rammed earth and accented with granite mashrabiya, this sustainable residential home in Dubai exemplifies a seamless integration of cultural heritage and modern living through thoughtful design and energy-efficient features.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced rammed earth for superior thermal insulation and sustainability.
02
Incorporates decorative granite mashrabiya to enhance privacy while allowing natural light.
03
Features open-concept living spaces designed for cross ventilation to reduce energy usage.
04
Integrates advanced gray water recycling systems for effective water conservation.
05
Employs an innovative air supply system utilizing underground cooling for climate adaptation.
The House of the Future in Jabal Ali Village, Dubai, is an architectural project that reflects a blend of traditional and modern design principles. It serves as a residential dwelling while addressing sustainability and energy efficiency. The project's aim is to create a living space that respects cultural roots while incorporating contemporary methodologies that enhance quality of life.

The design utilizes a variety of materials such as rammed earth, granite mashrabiya, precast concrete, double walls, and expansive glass surfaces. Each material has been carefully selected for its aesthetic and sustainable properties, providing structural integrity and thermal performance. The use of rammed earth not only contributes to the overall character of the building but also offers significant thermal insulation benefits.

Sustainable features are integrated throughout the project, demonstrating sensitivity to Dubai's climate. Cross ventilation systems promote natural airflow, minimizing reliance on artificial cooling methods. The incorporation of solar panels and water conservation systems enhances the house's eco-friendliness.

Unique Design Approaches

One notable aspect of the House of the Future is its cultural responsiveness. The design integrates aspects of traditional Islamic architecture, such as arched windows and decorative mashrabiya screens, but adapts them for modern functionality. These elements provide privacy and reduce solar gain while honoring the site's heritage.

The spatial configuration is another distinguishing feature. Open-concept living areas prioritize both social interaction and privacy, with strategically placed internal atriums to facilitate light and airflow. This arrangement not only enhances the aesthetic experience but also furthers the overall energy efficiency of the home.

Advanced water management strategies are also a defining characteristic. The design incorporates a gray water recycling system to maximize resource use. This attention to water efficiency aligns with best practices in sustainable architecture, representing a holistic approach to ecological stewardship.

Innovative Integration of Technology

Technological advancements are embedded throughout the home's design. Incorporating smart home systems allows for efficient control of lighting, temperature, and security. The project anticipates future residential needs, ensuring adaptability in a rapidly changing environmental landscape.

Overall, the House of the Future in Jabal Ali Village is a testament to the potential for architecture to embody both cultural identity and modern-day requirements. For those interested in exploring architectural plans, sections, and additional design details, further analysis will provide deeper insights into this significant project. Understanding these elements will shed light on how architectural ideas can shape contemporary living spaces while remaining mindful of the past and future.
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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
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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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