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Rammed Earth Walls and Weathered Aluminum Frame in Sustainable Residential Design

Authors:
Michael Peter Johan Den Otter, Gaetano Giordano, Alicja KrzywiŃska
Rammed Earth Walls and Weathered Aluminum Frame in Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth walls and a weathered aluminum frame, this residential design emphasizes sustainability while providing a versatile living space that adapts to the extreme climate of the United Arab Emirates.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced rammed earth for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Weathered aluminum elements contribute to sustainability by utilizing recycled materials.
03
Modular design allows for easy adaptation to various family sizes and needs.
04
Automated shading systems optimize indoor comfort in extreme temperatures.
05
An integrated courtyard promotes outdoor interaction and community bonding.

The "Domus Emirati" architectural project is a modern residential design tailored for the unique environmental and cultural context of the United Arab Emirates. This project integrates contemporary architectural techniques and materials with local traditions, resulting in a sustainable and adaptable living space. The structure addresses the challenges of extreme climate while emphasizing community engagement and individual privacy.

This project represents a blend of tradition and modernity, aimed at redefining residential living standards. It prioritizes energy efficiency and environmental consciousness, ensuring that the design supports a sustainable lifestyle. The architecture fosters social interaction through well-defined communal spaces while providing necessary privacy in personal living areas.

Material Selection and Sustainability

The material choices in "Domus Emirati" are notable for their emphasis on sustainability and local sourcing. The main structural components are constructed from high-strength steel and aluminum, which offer durability and ease of assembly. This factory-prepared framework supports the project's modular design, allowing for scalability. The incorporation of limestone—sourced from local quarries—provides aesthetic appeal and thermal efficiency. Additionally, the use of weathered aluminum recycled from construction waste minimizes environmental impact.

The project also features rammed earth in its construction, which enhances thermal performance and contributes to the building's aesthetic qualities. This choice highlights the integration of innovative materials that are adapted to the local climate, promoting natural cooling and reduced reliance on mechanical systems.

Unique Design Approaches

In terms of spatial organization, "Domus Emirati" showcases a dual-level configuration. The ground floor is dedicated to communal living areas—such as kitchens and family rooms—promoting social interaction, while private bedrooms are positioned on the upper level. This thoughtful arrangement provides a clear separation between public and private spaces, catering to the needs of various family sizes and lifestyles.

The design incorporates an inner courtyard that encourages outdoor engagement, enhancing the overall living experience and promoting community ties. Automated shading systems are employed to regulate indoor temperatures, a critical feature in the UAE's harsh climate. This innovative approach to climatic control illustrates a commitment to energy efficiency.

The integration of intelligent systems for water management and energy generation through photovoltaic panels offers further advances in sustainability. These features not only reduce the environmental footprint but also demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to domestic housing.

The "Domus Emirati" project ultimately embodies a fusion of cultural identity and contemporary architectural principles, creating a versatile and sustainable living environment. For a comprehensive exploration of the project's architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, interested readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the rich details provided in the project presentation.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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