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Sustainable Family Living with Eco-Friendly Materials and Traditional Wind Towers

Authors:
Dalia Majzoub, Juana Samad, Rima Al Ayoubi, Mariam Hamad
Sustainable Family Living with Eco-Friendly Materials and Traditional Wind Towers

Project in-detail

Utilizing traditional wind towers and sustainable materials like glass and limestone, the design creates energy-efficient spaces that foster community while providing a modern family residence in the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with modularity in mind to adapt to evolving family needs.
02
Incorporates sustainable landscaping with native, drought-resistant plants.
03
Features advanced smart technology for energy management and comfort.
04
Integrates aerated spaces with traditional wind towers for natural ventilation.
05
Utilizes local materials like limestone and glass to enhance community identity.
The "Smart National Housing - House of the Future" project presents a thoughtful architectural solution designed for the unique living conditions in the United Arab Emirates. Focused on sustainability and cultural resonance, this design aims to provide an optimized living environment that integrates modern technology with traditional Emirati architectural principles. The project emphasizes a balance between indoor and outdoor spaces, leveraging natural elements to enhance both functionality and aesthetics.

The residence features a spatial organization that enhances family interactions while maintaining privacy. Key components include inner courtyards that facilitate natural ventilation and light, as well as distinct areas for gathering, such as the maqsura designed for socializing. Each floor effectively serves designated functions, with the ground level dedicated to communal and guest areas, while the upper level accommodates personal spaces like bedrooms. This arrangement is indicative of the design's commitment to fostering familial ties and cultural values.

Innovative Design Approaches and Materiality

What sets this project apart is its systematic integration of traditional and modern design elements. The concept of the Date Palm Sanctuary not only serves as an aesthetic inspiration but also informs the architectural layout and environmental considerations. The use of natural materials reflects a respect for local craftsmanship while supporting sustainability. Concrete provides structural integrity, while glass facilitates light and views, creating a harmonious indoor-to-outdoor transition.

The incorporation of native landscaping, featuring drought-resistant plants, aligns with the project’s commitment to ecological balance. Additionally, the integration of smart technologies—such as IoT devices for energy management—addresses both contemporary living standards and environmental sustainability. The use of features like ventilated barjeels exemplifies a modern adaptation of traditional wind towers, ensuring effective climate control while maintaining cultural relevance.

Integration of Cultural and Technological Elements

The architectural plans exhibit a modular design, allowing for future adaptability as familial needs evolve. This flexibility is vital in a region where family structures and living requirements may shift over time. The inclusion of social spaces concentrated around inner courtyards promotes community interaction while ensuring that privacy is respected.

The overall design harmonizes with its geographical location and climatic conditions, emphasizing energy efficiency while drawing inspiration from Emirati heritage. Each architectural section speaks to a broader narrative about sustainable living integrated with the cultural fabric of the UAE.

For further exploration of the project’s nuances, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and various design concepts, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the presentation of the "Smart National Housing - House of the Future" project. Each element of this design offers an opportunity to understand how thoughtful architecture can shape the future of residential living.
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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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