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Sustainable Living Through Passive Cooling and Local Lime Stone Craftsmanship

Sustainable Living Through Passive Cooling and Local Lime Stone Craftsmanship

Project in-detail

Incorporating local lime stone and integrating passive cooling techniques, the design creates a harmonious balance between traditional aesthetics and modern sustainability, serving as a contemporary residence that fosters community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates mashrabiya for enhanced privacy and natural ventilation.
02
Utilizes local lime stone for structural integrity and climate adaptation.
03
Features a central courtyard that promotes community interaction.
04
Employs passive cooling systems to reduce energy consumption.
05
Integrates wind catchers for natural air circulation throughout the residence.
The Ghaf project is a residential architectural design located in the UAE, inspired by the cultural significance of the Ghaf tree, a symbol of endurance and sustainability in the region. This project effectively merges traditional Middle Eastern architectural principles with contemporary design elements, resulting in a functional living space that emphasizes environmental harmony.

The architecture of the Ghaf project centers around a central courtyard, a feature that promotes natural ventilation and fosters a communal atmosphere within the residence. The layout is carefully designed to segregate public and private spaces, offering both opportunities for social interaction and maintaining individual privacy. Key components include a spacious living area that opens towards the courtyard, a dining space adjacent to the living area, and strategically positioned bedrooms designed for seclusion.

The unique approach of this project lies in its integration of traditional design elements like mashrabiya, which not only provides aesthetic value but also enhances privacy and shade. The incorporation of local materials such as lime stone and aerated concrete underlines the commitment to sustainability, ensuring that the project remains contextually relevant. The use of glass reinforced concrete for the façade is a noteworthy detail, allowing for intricate patterns that reflect cultural motifs while serving practical purposes.

Sustainability plays a vital role in the design process, demonstrated by the implementation of passive cooling techniques and the inclusion of solar panels on the roof to reduce energy consumption. Wind catchers feature prominently in the architectural design, capturing natural breezes to aid in cooling the living spaces without relying solely on mechanical systems.

The Ghaf project illustrates the ability to combine cultural heritage with modern architectural practices through its meticulous design choices and responsive environmental strategies. For a comprehensive understanding of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed project presentation.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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