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Sustainable Living Embodied in Manufactured Stone and Plaster Clad Courtyard Home

Authors:
Abdelrahman Azmi Khalil Mousa, Bashar Matar, Moh'd Hayajneh, Mohammad Zaid Alkilani
Sustainable Living Embodied in Manufactured Stone and Plaster Clad Courtyard Home

Project in-detail

Manufactured stone and plaster create a durable facade for a courtyard home designed for sustainable family living, seamlessly integrating private and communal spaces while promoting energy efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Manufactured stone exterior enhances durability while providing aesthetic cohesion with the surrounding environment.
02
The design incorporates natural vegetation, promoting local biodiversity and reducing maintenance requirements.
03
A central courtyard fosters communal activities and enhances natural ventilation throughout the home.
04
Load-bearing walls allow flexible interior layouts, adapting to the needs of future occupants.
05
Innovative thermal insulation methods contribute to a net-zero energy approach, minimizing environmental impact.
The "House of the Future" represents a comprehensive approach to modern architecture, seamlessly blending sustainable design elements with cultural traditions. Located in an undefined urban context, this project is built on the principles of eco-friendliness and functionality. The architectural design emphasizes a connection to the environment while promoting energy efficiency and human comfort through intelligent spatial planning.

The project features a multi-level arrangement, which includes communal and private spaces, allowing for flexibility and adaptability in use. The ground floor is dedicated to open-plan living, facilitating interaction among residents. Key areas include a family lounge, dining space, and kitchen with direct access to an exterior garden. This arrangement promotes outdoor living, inundating the interior with natural light and air.

The first floor comprises a suite and additional bedrooms, strategically positioned to optimize privacy and views. Functionality is woven throughout the design, with each space serving multiple purposes, thereby catering to the varying needs of the inhabitants.

Sustainable features are at the core of the architectural design. An advanced thermal insulation system and solar panels are incorporated to achieve energy independence. The use of local, native vegetation further enhances the ecological footprint of the project, encouraging biodiversity and supporting the local climate.

Innovative materials are chosen to complement the aesthetic and functional objectives. Manufactured stone provides durability and visual interest in exterior cladding. Anodized aluminum frames support expansive windows that allow for significant daylight penetration while minimizing heat gain. Wood composite elements used for landscaping ensure structural longevity while maintaining environmental integrity.

Unique Features and Cultural Integration

What sets the "House of the Future" apart from other contemporary projects is its respectful homage to traditional Emirati architecture. Elements such as the central *housh*, or courtyard, serve as a focal point, promoting communal activities while providing shelter from the harsh climate. This significant design feature draws upon historical practices of creating intimate outdoor spaces that foster social interaction.

The architectural approach effectively integrates modern technology with cultural context, emphasizing passive solar design principles. Natural ventilation is facilitated by strategic openings throughout the structure, minimizing reliance on mechanical systems and reducing energy consumption. Additionally, the layout encourages cross-ventilation, further enhancing indoor climate control.

The structural design employs load-bearing walls that ensure stability while allowing flexibility for future modifications. This adaptability is vital, as it allows the house to evolve with the families that inhabit it.

Sustainability and Material Workmanship

The sustainability aspect of the "House of the Future" goes beyond energy-efficient systems. The design incorporates a variety of locally sourced materials that resonate with the environment while providing an aesthetically pleasing facade. For instance, the use of granite stone for flooring offers durability and a timeless quality. Brushed manufactured stone cladding enhances the texture and character of the building, further contributing to its unique aesthetics.

Furthermore, the integration of native flora not only establishes a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape but also reduces maintenance requirements. This thoughtful landscaping reinforces the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship and resilience.

To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and overarching ideas of this innovative project, interested readers are encouraged to explore the complete presentation of the "House of the Future."
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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