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Subterranean Living Enhanced by Rammed Earth and Central Courtyard in Emirati Design

Author:
Jean Sok Kwak
Subterranean Living Enhanced by Rammed Earth and Central Courtyard in Emirati Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth construction and a central courtyard, this design integrates subterranean living with natural ventilation to create a sustainable family home in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth walls for superior thermal regulation and low environmental impact.
02
Incorporates a central courtyard that promotes natural light and ventilation within the underground living spaces.
03
Adapts traditional wind tower design for efficient passive cooling and air circulation.
04
Features flexible spaces that allow for future expansion to accommodate growing family needs.
05
Emphasizes community interaction through communal areas integrated into the design.

## Overview

Located in Dubai, the proposed design for the residence emphasizes a progressive approach to Emirati housing by merging sustainability with traditional architectural practices. The concept revolves around creating an environment that addresses the specific climatic conditions of the region while respecting cultural values. By integrating underground living quarters with an internal courtyard, the design aims to provide both privacy and a sense of community among residents.

### Spatial Configuration and Environmental Considerations

The innovative spatial organization of the design prioritizes thermal regulation and natural ventilation. By situating living areas underground, the structure reduces reliance on mechanical cooling systems. The central courtyard serves as a bright, ventilated space that fosters a connection to nature while facilitating light and air circulation. This arrangement reflects the traditional Emirati emphasis on communal living, enhancing social interactions within shared spaces.

Natural elements and local materials, such as rammed earth and concrete, promote sustainability by minimizing transportation impacts and providing energy efficiency. Additional features like strategically placed wind towers offer natural ventilation, reducing energy consumption and aligning with modern sustainable living practices.

### Material Selection and Aesthetic Details

Key materials selected for the project contribute to both functional and aesthetic goals. Rammed earth is utilized for its insulative properties, while concrete provides structural stability and a contemporary appearance. Expansive glass elements enhance the connection to the outdoor environment, flooding the interior with natural light. Warm wood accents serve to complement cooler concrete surfaces, creating a harmonious balance throughout the dwelling.

The site plan reflects a clear division of spaces: residential zones are designed for privacy and accessibility to communal areas, while service blocks, including a garage and storage, are located discretely to maintain the residence's clean lines. Circulation paths further enhance accessibility and promote social engagement among residents. Future adaptability is incorporated into the design, allowing for potential expansions that align with the evolving needs of families, thereby supporting traditional Emirati values of familial growth.

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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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