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Sustainable Living Through Lightweight Construction Using Heblex and Natural Ventilation Techniques

Authors:
Arina Keshavarzmohammadian, Tina Safariveshnavei, Shayan Rakhshan
Sustainable Living Through Lightweight Construction Using Heblex and Natural Ventilation Techniques

Project in-detail

Constructed with Heblex for enhanced insulation and integrating traditional wind catchers for natural ventilation, this residence redefines family living in Dubai by harmonizing modern sustainability with cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with Heblex blocks for superior thermal insulation.
02
Incorporates traditional Iranian wind catchers for natural cooling.
03
Features a central sunken courtyard optimizing natural light.
04
Designed to allow flexible expansion for family growth.
05
Utilizes large glazing for expansive views and connectivity to the outdoors.

The Dubai Sustainable Residence represents an innovative approach to modern living, designed specifically to meet the demands of contemporary households in an arid climate. This project incorporates sustainable architectural principles, emphasizing energy efficiency, natural ventilation, and user-centered design. It caters to families of four to six, reflecting a balance between private and communal living spaces.

The architectural design features a multi-level structure that includes basement, ground, and optional expansion floors, facilitating adaptability for future occupants. The residence emphasizes spatial fluidity, allowing seamless transitions between social areas and private spaces. A central sunken courtyard serves as a key element, enhancing natural light and improving thermal comfort in the interior environment.

Integration of Natural Elements and Passive Design

What distinguishes the Dubai Sustainable Residence from other projects is its thoughtful integration of natural elements and passive design features. The incorporation of traditional Iranian architectural motifs, such as courtyards and wind catchers, maximizes airflow and enhances cooling, effectively reducing the need for mechanical air conditioning. These features highlight the project's respect for heritage while addressing modern sustainability concerns.

The design employs Heblex lightweight blocks for construction, offering excellent insulation properties and accelerating build times. The use of large glazing elements allows for expansive views and natural light, fostering a connection between the indoor and outdoor environments. Additionally, wooden accents and natural stone flooring provide warmth and tactile appeal, emphasizing durability and sustainability in material selection.

Innovative Layout and Flexible Functionality

The residence's layout is carefully planned to enhance the user experience. The design prioritizes privacy by spatially separating communal and private areas while still encouraging social interaction through shared facilities. This layout considers the evolving needs of families and aims to create a welcoming atmosphere that promotes connection.

The optional expansion feature is a notable innovation, allowing families to adapt their living spaces as needed. This flexibility caters to the diversity of family dynamics and future growth, making the residence a practical choice for long-term living.

For those interested in the technical aspects of this project, exploring architectural plans, sections, and design ideas will provide in-depth insights into its innovative features and functionality. The Dubai Sustainable Residence exemplifies how contemporary architecture can harmonize with traditional practices, offering a sustainable living solution tailored for the unique context of Dubai. To gain a better understanding of the design principles and architectural intentions, reviewing detailed presentations of the project is highly recommended.

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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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