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Revitalizing Airflow with Traditional Mashrabiya and Sustainable Adobe in Luxurious Residential Design

Author:
Denis Roibu
Revitalizing Airflow with Traditional Mashrabiya and Sustainable Adobe in Luxurious Residential Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing traditional Mashrabiya for natural ventilation and locally sourced adobe for thermal efficiency, this luxurious residence seamlessly blends sustainable practices with modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a traditional Qanat cooling system for passive temperature regulation.
02
Features extensive use of native plants in the landscaping to enhance biodiversity.
03
Incorporates 3D printing technology for intricate facade details.
04
Employs greywater recycling systems for irrigation and water conservation.
05
Constructed with locally sourced adobe to improve thermal performance and sustainability.

The Emirati Elysium Estate is a residential project designed with both traditional Emirati architectural influences and modern sustainable practices. Located in a culturally rich setting, this estate exemplifies a blend of aesthetics and functionality, responding to the climatic and social conditions of the region. It serves as a luxurious living space that prioritizes comfort while promoting ecological responsibility.

The project features multiple living areas, each purposefully designed to foster community interaction and personal privacy. The layout integrates five bedrooms, expansive open-concept living spaces, and key areas dedicated to both relaxation and entertainment. Each room is connected to smart systems for energy efficiency and environmental stewardship, creating a cohesive experience for residents.

Innovative cooling techniques, including the revival of the Qanat cooling system, significantly reduce energy consumption. This ancient method channels underground air to regulate temperatures, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional cooling systems. The incorporation of solar panels demonstrates a commitment to renewable energy, allowing the estate to operate autonomously and reducing its environmental footprint.

Unique Design Approaches One of the standout elements of the Emirati Elysium Estate is its use of traditional building materials, such as clay-toned adobe and pure white stone, which enhance the thermal performance of the structure. The black Mashrabiya details are not only visually appealing but also serve functional purposes, including air ventilation and sunlight control.

Landscaping plays an integral role in the project. The gardens utilize native flora to promote biodiversity while mimicking traditional Bedouin gathering spaces. This careful selection of plants contributes to the local ecosystem and reduces the need for extensive irrigation.

Sustainable Practices and Innovations The estate's architectural innovations also extend to water conservation measures. Greywater recycling systems are employed for irrigation and non-potable water use, significantly decreasing overall water demand. Thermal insulation materials embedded within wall systems further enhance energy efficiency, ensuring consistent indoor temperatures throughout the year.

The project exemplifies the integration of innovative technologies with respect for historical methods. By utilizing 3D printing for facade designs, it allows for precise and intricate detailing that pays homage to traditional craftsmanship while maintaining contemporary relevance.

Explore the project presentation for detailed insights into its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas. Engaging with these elements will offer a comprehensive understanding of how this project achieves a balance between luxury and sustainability within the context of Emirati architecture.

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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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