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Twisted Entrances and Earth-Tuned Clay Create a Contemporary Family Residence

Author:
Orhan Oguz
Twisted Entrances and Earth-Tuned Clay Create a Contemporary Family Residence

Project in-detail

Employing twisted entrances and earth-tuned clay, the design facilitates a seamless blend of natural light and privacy, culminating in a contemporary residence tailored for family living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Twisted entrances create dynamic spatial flow and enhance social interaction.
02
Earth-tuned clay provides natural insulation while maintaining aesthetic continuity.
03
A central courtyard maximizes natural light and encourages ventilation throughout the home.
04
Mirrored gardens integrate landscaping with the structure, enhancing biodiversity.
05
3D-printed clay elements allow for precise detailing and reduced construction waste.
The Riad House project represents a contemporary residence that integrates traditional Moroccan architectural elements with modern sustainability practices. It is designed around a central courtyard, reflecting the essential features of a traditional riad while catering to the needs of contemporary living. The project emphasizes privacy, communal interaction, and connection to nature through thoughtful spatial organization and material selection.

The Riad House functions as a family residence, incorporating spaces for leisure, social interaction, and private retreat. The layout is systematically divided into public, semi-public, and private areas, ensuring a balanced lifestyle for its inhabitants. Common areas, such as the basement recreational rooms and the garden, facilitate community engagement, while private zones, including bedrooms and bathrooms, offer quiet and solitude.

Unique Design Approaches

One distinguishing feature of the Riad House is its architectural configuration, specifically the alternating twisted entrances which enhance social dynamics and support spontaneous interactions among residents. This design choice is indicative of the house's commitment to fostering community within a private setting.

The use of clay and loam as primary materials serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. These materials contribute to the structure's thermal mass, ensuring energy efficiency while reflecting local building traditions. In addition, the inclusion of large glass windows allows for abundant natural light and connection with the outdoor environment, maintaining comfort while enhancing the visual aspects of the space.

The integration of mirrored gardens and earth air tunnels exemplifies the project’s sustainable approach. These gardens not only serve as green spaces that improve mental well-being but also contribute to the home’s ecological footprint through rainwater management and biodiversity support. The innovative use of 3D-printed clay elements further minimizes waste and provides unique architectural details.

Exploration of specific architectural plans, sections, and designs of the Riad House will provide deeper insights into its innovative features and practical applications. For more information on the architectural ideas and functions of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation, which includes detailed drawings and visual representations.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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