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Thermal Mass and Clay Bricks Enhance Flexibility in Multigenerational Living

Author:
Hamed Elkholy
Thermal Mass and Clay Bricks Enhance Flexibility in Multigenerational Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing local clay bricks and a flexible design, the residence evolves from a compact villa for newlyweds to a multigenerational home, accommodating shifting family dynamics while promoting communal and private spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local clay bricks to enhance thermal mass and reduce energy consumption.
02
Incorporates vertical expansion to accommodate growing family dynamics without increasing land footprint.
03
Features communal outdoor areas designed to foster family interaction while ensuring privacy.
04
Employs cross-ventilation techniques through strategically placed windows for improved natural airflow.
05
Adapts traditional Arabian architectural elements for modern functionality in a multigenerational context.
The architectural project, titled "House of the Future, House of Opportunities," is a residential design that evolves in response to the dynamic needs of family life. This project is structured around three distinct development phases that allow it to adapt as a family grows from a couple to a multigenerational unit. The design emphasizes sustainability, functionality, and cultural resonance, making it a relevant case study in modern architectural practice.

The primary function of this project is to provide a flexible living environment that accommodates changing familial requirements over time. Each phase serves a specific target demographic: newly married couples, established families, and multigenerational groups. This adaptability is achieved through strategic use of space, where the design incorporates communal areas while ensuring individual privacy. The project highlights the importance of outdoor living, integrating landscaped gardens and pools that promote social interaction while enhancing the connection to nature.

Design Adaptability and Use of Local Materials

A distinctive aspect of this project is its adaptability. The initial phase features a compact villa designed for newlyweds, encompassing essential areas such as a living room, kitchen, and dining space on the ground floor, along with a bedroom upstairs. As the family expands, the design allows for a vertical addition that maintains the overall footprint, thus maximizing the use of land without compromising outdoor spaces.

The project’s material composition is rooted in local availability and sustainability. Clay bricks are utilized for wall construction, providing thermal mass and insulation. The foundation is constructed using concrete, known for its structural integrity. Tempered glass is employed in windows to enhance natural light while reducing artificial lighting needs. Terracotta tiles on the roof contribute to cooling, and wooden beams offer aesthetic value and structural support.

Functional Zoning and Environmentally Conscious Design

The strategic zoning within the design reflects the functional needs of the evolving family. The first stage facilitates interaction on the ground floor, thus fostering family bonding, while the private areas on the upper floor promote restful retreats. In later stages, the structure evolves into four distinct apartment units, allowing married children to have independence while remaining close to their parents.

The environmental aspect of the design is significant. Cross-ventilation techniques are implemented through the placement of windows that overlook internal courtyards, ensuring airflow and thermal comfort in warm climates. Additionally, shaded gardens are strategically positioned to reduce heat gain, increase outdoor usability, and provide recreational areas for families.

The "House of the Future, House of Opportunities" stands out among typical residential projects due to its clear focus on adaptability, local materiality, and environmental responsibility. The architectural intentions are rooted in practical family dynamics while retaining cultural relevance. To delve deeper into the design principles and elements, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, reviewing architectural plans, sections, and designs for a thorough understanding of this comprehensive architectural concept.
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Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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Chair
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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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