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Terracotta Jali Walls and Wind Tunnel Design Enhance Sustainable Living in Dubai

Author:
Keyur Navadiya
Terracotta Jali Walls and Wind Tunnel Design Enhance Sustainable Living in Dubai

Project in-detail

Utilizing terracotta Jali walls and a wind tunnel mechanism for natural ventilation, this Dubai residence combines sustainable materials with efficient design to create a modern living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes terracotta Jali walls for solar shading and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates a wind tunnel system to enhance natural ventilation throughout the space.
03
Features a green roof with solar panels, promoting energy efficiency and sustainability.
04
Employs recycled rubber flooring to minimize environmental impact while ensuring durability.
05
Strategically oriented to optimize views and natural light while reducing heat gain.

## Overview

Located in Jumeirah Village, Dubai, the "House of the Future" is a residential project designed to integrate sustainable principles with a modern aesthetic. The project addresses both environmental considerations and cultural context, aiming to create a living space that respects local traditions while employing contemporary architectural practices. The design promotes eco-friendly solutions, linking modern living with natural elements effectively.

## Spatial Strategy and Zoning

The zoning strategy enhances functionality and organization throughout the residence. The basement level accommodates parking for two vehicles and storage, seamlessly connecting to the main living areas via an internal staircase. The ground floor features communal spaces, including the kitchen, dining, and living areas, along with a garden that encourages outdoor interaction. On the first floor, the design prioritizes privacy with bedrooms and balconies, which are arranged to optimize natural light and airflow. Additional infrastructure, including a service block, has been integrated to support the overall organization without compromising aesthetic appeal.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection reflects a commitment to both durability and environmental consciousness. Terrazzo tiles provide a robust flooring option, while terracotta Jali walls fulfill dual roles as shading devices and decorative elements, drawing inspiration from traditional patterns. The use of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (ACC) blocks helps regulate indoor temperatures. Notably, recycled rubber flooring underscores the project's sustainability ethos. Key features such as a wind tunnel mechanism for passive ventilation, a green roof, and solar panels contribute to energy efficiency, further demonstrating an innovative approach to sustainable living in line with the local climate and cultural identity.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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