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Vertical Gardens and Natural Stone Integrate in Sustainable Residential Community Design

Author:
Mouaz Abouzaid
Vertical Gardens and Natural Stone Integrate in Sustainable Residential Community Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing vertical gardens and natural stone, the design creates a sustainable residential community that fosters interaction through meticulously planned communal spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates vertical gardens for enhanced air quality and aesthetics.
02
Utilizes locally sourced stone to maintain cultural and environmental relevance.
03
Features a central courtyard designed to promote community interaction.
04
Integrates wind catchers for passive cooling and energy efficiency.
05
Includes interconnected pathways that facilitate social connectivity among residents.
The project is an innovative exploration of residential architecture in the Emirati context, blending modern living with traditional values. It embodies a forward-thinking design approach that addresses sustainability and community integration. By prioritizing environmentally responsible practices and social interaction, the project enhances urban living while maintaining cultural identity.

Unique Sustainability Approach

The project incorporates sustainable design elements that significantly reduce energy consumption. It features vertical gardens and wind catchers, both of which facilitate natural ventilation. These elements are integrated into the architectural design, allowing for reduced reliance on mechanical cooling systems. The central courtyard acts as a focal point for the community, promoting engagement among residents while providing a microclimate that supports outdoor activities. Utilizing locally sourced materials aligns with the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship while ensuring a connection to the region's architectural heritage.

Community-Centric Design

A key focus of the project is fostering a sense of community through open spaces and neighborhood planning. The layout consists of interconnected paths and communal gardens that encourage social interaction, particularly among families. The design elements include private villa spaces that seamlessly connect to shared outdoor areas without compromising privacy. This balance helps reinforce communal bonds while respecting personal space. Traditional Emirati architectural concepts, such as barahat (courtyards) and sikks (alleys), are woven into the design, offering familiarity and enhancing the overall livability of the neighborhood.

The integration of these elements results in a cohesive architectural language that is both functional and culturally relevant. To explore the project presentation further, including architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas, is encouraged for a more comprehensive understanding of its intricacies.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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