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 Vertical Gardens Enhance Sustainable Living in a Modern Family Villa

Authors:
Anand Devarajan, Kenia Nicole Roman Cortez, Kengo Kawagashira
Rammed Earth Walls and Vertical Gardens Enhance Sustainable Living in a Modern Family Villa

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth walls and vertical gardens, the villa achieves a sustainable living environment that caters to family dynamics while merging contemporary design with cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth construction for superior thermal performance and local material sustainability.
02
Incorporates vertical gardens that enhance natural ventilation and biodiversity around the villa.
03
Features a geometric façade that blends traditional Arabic design elements with modern aesthetics.
04
Orientation and landscaping strategically minimize heat gain while maximizing outdoor living space.
05
Integrates renewable energy solutions, including solar panels, to support eco-friendly living.
The project, Desert Garden Villa, represents a thoughtful integration of contemporary architectural design within the cultural and environmental context of Dubai. This residential project showcases a clear intention to harmonize functionality with aesthetics, catering to the needs of a modern family while respecting traditional values. It comprises distinct zones that facilitate both privacy and social interaction, highlighting its dual purpose as a place for private living and communal gathering.

The architectural design consists of focused areas including service, public, and private spaces, each contributing to a cohesive whole. At the heart of the design is a commitment to sustainability, evident in the material selection and spatial organization. Key features include rammed earth walls providing natural insulation, precast concrete elements that enhance structural integrity, and solar-efficient glazing that minimizes heat gain while allowing natural light into the residence.

Unique Design Approaches

The design of Desert Garden Villa employs unique geometric forms, balancing circular and angular elements. This juxtaposition not only enriches the visual impact of the structure but also resonates with traditional Arabic aesthetics. The circular forms serve as focal points, while the angular accents add complexity to the overall façade. This approach differentiates the villa from other projects by emphasizing a dialogue between modernity and cultural heritage.

Integration of landscaping is another benchmark in the design strategy. By incorporating lush gardens and vertical green spaces, the villa blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor environments. This seamless transition fosters a deeper connection with nature, essential in the context of Dubai's arid climate. The strategic landscaping enhances the overall functionality of the home, providing shaded areas that promote outdoor living without compromising comfort.

Sustainable Solutions

Aligned with contemporary architectural practices, Desert Garden Villa prioritizes sustainability through the use of renewable energy sources and efficient building materials. The implementation of solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient installations reflect a commitment to reducing the environmental impact. The use of local materials—such as rammed earth—ensures minimal transportation costs and supports the regional economy. This sustainability-focused approach not only serves ecological purposes but also aligns with the broader architectural trend towards responsible design.

In summary, the Desert Garden Villa stands as a compelling example of how modern architecture can adapt to cultural contexts and environmental demands. It highlights significant design strategies that enhance both aesthetic appeal and functional performance. Readers interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas behind this project are encouraged to seek out more details on its innovative features and overall execution.
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