Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Rammed Earth Walls and Solar Towers in a Sustainable Emirati Family Home

Author:
Judit Szajcz
Rammed Earth Walls and Solar Towers in a Sustainable Emirati Family Home

Project in-detail

Innovative use of rammed earth walls and solar towers defines a sustainable Emirati residence that harmonizes traditional design with modern living, creating a functional family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth walls for superior thermal performance and energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates solar towers designed for optimal natural ventilation and energy capture.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that enhances structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for reduced carbon footprint and quick assembly.
05
Integrates a greywater recycling system for sustainable water management throughout the home.
The "House of the Future" is an architectural design project that combines traditional Emirati culture with modern sustainability practices. Designed as a family home, it reflects the principles of ecological awareness, social connectivity, and heritage preservation. The project presents a synthesis of structural elements aimed at providing comfortable living spaces while minimizing environmental impact.

This project features a layout that emphasizes communal living through inviting public spaces while also safeguarding private family areas. The integration of courtyards, a hallmark of traditional Emirati architecture, incorporates natural ventilation and daylighting. The strategic placement of photovoltaic solar panels captures renewable energy efficiently, showcasing an innovative approach to sustainability. Water management systems are also incorporated, focusing on recycling grey water, essential for maximizing resource use in an arid climate.

The use of conventional materials such as rammed earth and locally sourced timber establishes a connection to the region’s architectural heritage while enhancing the building's thermal performance. These materials are complemented by contemporary design features, including expansive glass elements that provide visual connections to the surrounding landscape and promote indoor-outdoor flow.

Cultural Sensitivity and Community Orientation

The design of the "House of the Future" stands out for its cultural sensitivity and community orientation. By embracing traditional architectural motifs and communal living concepts, the project successfully addresses the unique social fabric of Emirati life. The inclusion of communal spaces such as large kitchens and living areas caters to family gatherings and social interactions, reflecting the values of community engagement.

Architectural features such as ventilation towers facilitate airflow while serving as aesthetic landmarks that add to the overall composition. Each element of the design is intentional and serves functional purposes without sacrificing visual integrity. This focus on community and culture differentiates the project from conventional residential designs, providing a cohesive living environment that is both modern and rooted in tradition.

Sustainable Practices and Innovative Solutions

Incorporating sustainable practices is a fundamental aspect of this architectural project. The use of rammed earth walls enhances natural insulation and reduces energy consumption. Solar panels contribute to the energy autonomy of the residence, showcasing the viability of renewable resources in everyday living. The implementation of a greywater recycling system allows for careful management of water resources, critical in the region's dry climate.

The spatial organization promotes a flow that minimizes dependencies on mechanical cooling systems, as open courtyards harness natural breezes and facilitate heat dissipation. The design's adaptability for future expansions also reflects foresight in meeting evolving family needs.

For more insights into this project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, explore the comprehensive presentation of the "House of the Future." Engaging with these elements will provide a deeper understanding of the innovative architectural ideas that define this residential project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy