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Reflective Surfaces and Natural Cooling in a Family-Centric Courtyard Home

Author:
Adnan Jamil Haidar
Reflective Surfaces and Natural Cooling in a Family-Centric Courtyard Home

Project in-detail

Incorporating reflective materials and local clay, this residence employs natural cooling techniques around an open courtyard to facilitate family interactions and privacy in a sustainable living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates recycled water features for natural cooling.
02
Utilizes locally sourced clay for both aesthetic and structural purposes.
03
Features reflective surfaces designed to minimize heat absorption.
04
Organizes living spaces around a central open courtyard for enhanced social interaction.
05
Includes adjustable louvered gates to optimize airflow and privacy.

# Analytical Report on the House of Cohesion

### Overview
Located in a desert climate, the House of Cohesion is designed to integrate elements of traditional Islamic architecture with contemporary functionality and environmental considerations. This project focuses on promoting family cohesion and community interaction while reflecting the Emirati identity through its spatial arrangements and cultural symbolism.

### Architectural Layout
The design features a central open courtyard that facilitates interaction between public and private areas, enhancing community ties while maintaining family privacy. A thoughtful organization separates the majlis and other communal spaces from private quarters, allowing for varied activities without compromising personal space. The inclusion of outdoor gardens and a designated children's pool further enriches recreational opportunities and family engagement.

The home strategically positions essential living areas—including a family room, dining space, and work areas—around the courtyard to maximize natural light and outdoor views. The layout includes three master bedrooms, each designed with walk-in closets to balance private and communal living effectively. The concept of open doors fosters social connections, enabling gatherings while preserving the boundaries of personal privacy.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The House of Cohesion prioritizes sustainable material choices to enhance thermal comfort and minimize environmental impact. Reflective materials are employed to reduce heat absorption, while natural cooling strategies, such as angled gates and water features that recycle water, create a refreshing climate within the interiors. Locally sourced clay and the cyclical reuse of building materials further emphasize resource conservation and economic efficiency.

Sustainability features include strategic ventilation that harnesses warm air and incorporates water elements to cool living spaces. Additionally, solar panels on the roof generate energy, contributing to the house's ecological footprint. Water features serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, linking inhabitants to their natural surroundings and promoting a sense of well-being. This architectural approach illustrates a commitment to creating spaces that are not only livable but also environmentally responsible.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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