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Terracotta Screens and Subterranean Cooling in a Sustainable Residential Setting

Authors:
Zaid Osama Saeed Alawadi, Kawar Tahseen Salih Salih, Omar Khalid Sabbar Sabbar, Aseel Ghanayem
Terracotta Screens and Subterranean Cooling in a Sustainable Residential Setting

Project in-detail

Utilizing terracotta screens and a semi-subterranean design, the residence effectively combines local materials and innovative cooling strategies to create an energy-efficient family home in Dubai's challenging climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes terracotta screens that enhance solar shading while reflecting local architectural traditions.
02
Incorporates a semi-subterranean layout to leverage natural cooling and reduce energy consumption.
03
Employs insulated concrete forms for improved thermal performance and energy efficiency.
04
Integrates courtyards to facilitate natural ventilation and social interaction within the home.
05
Features a landscape design using local plant species to promote biodiversity and environmental harmony.

## Overview
Located in Dubai, the semi-subterranean house embodies a contemporary response to the region's harsh climatic conditions while prioritizing cultural heritage and environmental sustainability. The design integrates innovative architectural strategies rooted in local traditions, effectively addressing the significant challenges posed by the desert environment. Emphasizing energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and biophilic principles, the project serves as a blueprint for sustainable living in urban contexts.

### Site Configuration and Spatial Organization
The layout of the house is meticulously planned to optimize natural ventilation and minimize solar exposure. The ground floor accommodates communal gathering spaces, such as the Majlis, living room, kitchen, and bathrooms, which are designed to enhance light flow and encourage airflow. Private spaces, including bedrooms and utility areas, are situated underground to promote relaxation and privacy. The first floor features a balcony and additional bedrooms, ensuring expansive views while maintaining sheltered privacy. This configuration allows for passive cooling and thermal comfort, crucial in the Dubai climate.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The project incorporates a range of carefully selected materials that contribute to its sustainability goals. Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) provide enhanced thermal insulation, while terracotta elements are used for perforated screens that offer both shade and aesthetic value. Natural plasters resonate with the local architectural style and support environmental adaptability. Incorporating local plant species in landscaping fosters a biophilic connection to the environment. The integration of solar panels further underscores the commitment to sustainable energy solutions, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting the overall efficiency of the residence.

The exterior features terracotta screens designed with parametric patterns that reflect cultural motifs, merging functionality with aesthetic appeal. The semi-subterranean approach serves to significantly reduce energy costs associated with cooling, demonstrating a forward-thinking framework that balances modern needs with traditional influences.

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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

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