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Rammed Earth Walls and Bamboo Framing in a Sustainable Courtyard Residence

Author:
Paraskevi Stasi
Rammed Earth Walls and Bamboo Framing in a Sustainable Courtyard Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating rammed earth walls and bamboo framing, the design fosters natural ventilation and biodiversity while serving as a comfortable residential space in Dubai’s arid climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls enhance thermal mass while using locally sourced materials.
02
Bamboo framing provides a sustainable alternative to traditional hardwood structures.
03
A central courtyard promotes natural ventilation, reducing energy consumption.
04
Mushrabiyah screens offer privacy and climate control in a culturally relevant design.
05
Green roof installation supports local biodiversity and manages rainwater runoff.
The architectural project "Sheltered Serenity" located in Dubai signifies a modern approach to private residential spaces, intertwining traditional cultural values with contemporary sustainable practices. This design centers around creating adaptable living environments that respond to the unique climatic conditions of the region. The layout comprises three interconnected compartments that cater to varying functions—solitude, social interaction, and communal activities—allowing residents to move fluidly between private and public realms.

**Integration of Cultural Heritage and Modern Sustainability**
One of the defining characteristics of "Sheltered Serenity" is its emphasis on blending local architectural traditions with modern elements. The design includes rammed earth walls, which utilize locally sourced materials to balance aesthetics with functionality, enhancing thermal performance. The incorporation of mushrabiyahs—intricate wooden lattice screens—pays homage to historical architectural practices, providing privacy while facilitating airflow. The project also employs bamboo for window frames and doors, reinforcing sustainability by using renewable materials.

The central courtyard serves as the focal point of the home, designed for outdoor living and cross-ventilation. This feature promotes a natural cooling strategy in line with the Dubai climate, while also being a gathering space for family and friends. The surrounding vegetation further promotes biodiversity, making the project ecologically thoughtful.

**Sustainable Architecture and Energy Efficiency**
"Sheltered Serenity" demonstrates a commitment to sustainability through the strategic use of various energy-efficient systems. The inclusion of solar panels as a power source, coupled with rainwater harvesting capabilities, establishes an environmentally responsible approach to resource management. The architectural design ensures that each element contributes to energy conservation, enhancing the overall efficiency of the home.

The functionality of interconnected spaces allows for flexible usage, with rooms designed to adapt as the needs of the occupants change over time. This forward-thinking design accommodates family growth and modification, thus increasing the longevity of the structure.

**Architectural Aesthetics and Material Choices**
The overall aesthetic of "Sheltered Serenity" is characterized by light-colored surfaces that reflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption. The use of recycled wooden roofs and pergolas offers visual warmth and a connection to nature, creating a harmonious balance between built and natural environments. This attention to materiality underlines an intrinsic respect for the local context and environmental conditions.

Overall, "Sheltered Serenity" stands out among typical residential designs due to its sophisticated integration of cultural elements, innovative sustainability practices, and functional flexibility. To delve deeper into the specifics of this project, such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas, a detailed exploration of the presentation is encouraged. This provides further insight into the design and its implications for modern architecture in arid environments.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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