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Seawater-Cooled Residence Featuring Rammed Earth Finishes and Sustainable Landscape Integration

Author:
Valeria Passetti
Seawater-Cooled Residence Featuring Rammed Earth Finishes and Sustainable Landscape Integration

Project in-detail

Incorporating seawater cooling technology and rammed earth finishes, this Dubai residence harmonizes sustainable living with traditional design elements to create an innovative family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates seawater-based cooling systems for energy efficiency.
02
Utilizes rammed earth walls for thermal mass and sustainability.
03
Features a rooftop greenhouse to promote urban agriculture.
04
Includes traditional mashrabiyya screens for privacy and ventilation.
05
Integrates extensive landscaping with native plants for biodiversity.
The "House of the Future: Seawater Technology" is an architectural project situated in Dubai that innovatively combines sustainable design with cultural elements. This residence utilizes advanced seawater technology to address climate challenges while fostering a healthy living environment. The design encompasses a mix of public and private spaces, creating a functional yet comfortable atmosphere tailored for family life.

The project integrates various architectural strategies that embrace the local context and climatic conditions. Notably, the incorporation of a greenhouse at the top of the structure serves multiple functions, acting both as an ecosystem for growing food and as an atmospheric regulator through evaporative cooling. This element not only enhances the building's sustainability but also promotes an educational aspect for environmentally conscious living.

Sustainable Material Choices and Design Implications

The project employs a diverse array of materials that contribute to its functionality and aesthetic integrity. Key materials include rammed earth finishes, clay and straw walls, transparent glass for shading, traditional mashrabiyya screens, and natural stone cladding. These choices reflect an emphasis on locally sourced resources, reducing environmental impact while enhancing cultural relevance.

Additionally, seawater technology is pivotal in this design, particularly in its application for cooling and irrigation. The implementation of rainwater harvesting systems and greywater recycling furthers the project’s commitment to sustainable practices. Passive cooling strategies, automated shading systems, and cross-ventilation principles are effectively utilized to optimize indoor comfort while minimizing energy consumption.

Innovative Design Features for Sustainability

This project distinguishes itself through the thoughtful integration of traditional design and modern technological solutions. The mashrabiyya windows not only function as architectural features but also deeply connect the interior spaces with the surrounding environment, allowing for natural light while ensuring privacy and temperature control. The landscape design further complements the structure by incorporating native flora that enhances the local ecosystem.

Furthermore, the educational outreach aspect of the project offers opportunities for community engagement, promoting awareness of sustainable living practices. By serving as a demonstration of advanced architectural principles in a challenging climate, the project provides valuable insights into the future of sustainable urban design.

Explore the project presentation to discover detailed architectural plans, sections, and design elements that underscore the unique aspects of this initiative. Through careful examination of these architectural designs, readers can gain deeper insights into the project and its contributions to sustainable architecture.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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