Get inspired!

17,363 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Sustainable Living Through Stabilized Mud Blocks and Effective Cross-Ventilation

Author:
Hasan Abdulhadi Ali Mansoor Hasan Naser
Sustainable Living Through Stabilized Mud Blocks and Effective Cross-Ventilation

Project in-detail

Utilizing stabilized mud blocks for thermal efficiency and strategically designed wooden shading elements, the residence integrates sustainable practices while providing a comfortable family living environment in the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced stabilized mud blocks for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Incorporates traditional wooden screens for effective sun shading and privacy.
03
Features a central courtyard that promotes natural ventilation and outdoor living.
04
Integrates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.
05
Designed with a flexible floor plan catering to varying family structures.
The "Traditional Future House" is an architectural project situated in the United Arab Emirates. It is designed to harmonize modern living with the region's traditional architectural practices. The house consists of two levels, accommodating four bedrooms, each featuring an en-suite bathroom and a dressing area. Its design prioritizes sustainability while retaining aesthetic and cultural relevance.

The structure utilizes a variety of materials, including Stabilized Mud Blocks (SMB) for its walls, wooden slatted screens for shading, and glass and steel accents that introduce contemporary elements. The interplay of these materials creates a balance between traditional and modern architecture.

Architecture and Design Approaches

The "Traditional Future House" emphasizes sustainable design principles to address the local climate. Key features include cantilevered shades that block direct sunlight while inviting natural light. The house's configuration allows for effective airflow management, ensuring comfort through enhanced cross-ventilation. Additionally, a rainwater harvesting system is integrated to collect and store rainwater, supporting the irrigation of landscaped gardens.

The organization of space plays a crucial role in the functionality of the home. The ground floor is characterized by an open yard at the entrance, leading to a sunken sitting area, dining space, and kitchen areas. The first floor hosts private bedrooms, organized around a central hallway for efficient circulation. The roof deck provides added utility with provisions for laundry and storage.

Unique Aspects of the Project

What sets the "Traditional Future House" apart is its cultural integration and adaptability. The design incorporates elements inspired by historical context, such as "mashrabiya" balcony screens, intertwining traditional aesthetics with contemporary materiality. This approach ensures that while the home serves modern needs, it remains rooted in cultural identity.

The landscaping surrounding the house features native plant species, promoting biodiversity and creating shaded outdoor spaces. This thoughtful integration enhances the environmental performance of the project.

Call to Action

To gain a thorough understanding of the "Traditional Future House" and its intricate design details, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans and sections available. These resources provide additional insights into the architectural ideas and design strategies that define this project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,363 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy