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Vertical Gardens And Wind Catchers Enhance Sustainable Living In Natural Timber Framework

Authors:
Bianca-cristina-maria MĂrginean, Daniela Maier, Viorel ZbÎrciog
Vertical Gardens And Wind Catchers Enhance Sustainable Living In Natural Timber Framework

Project in-detail

Incorporating wind catchers and vertical gardens within a natural timber framework, this residence in Dubai harmonizes environmental sensitivity with functionality to create a sustainable living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional wind catchers for natural ventilation.
02
Features vertical gardens that enhance air quality and aesthetics.
03
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
04
Uses charred wooden shingles for durability and fire resistance.
05
Emphasizes outdoor living with multiple private terraces for residents.
The Iqbal Home project in Dubai presents a thoughtful integration of traditional Emirati architecture with modern sustainable practices. Designed to address the unique climate and cultural context of the region, this residential building serves as a practical living space while reflecting local heritage. The project emphasizes energy efficiency and community-oriented environments, aligning with contemporary priorities in urban design.

Sustainable Design Elements
The Iqbal Home employs an array of sustainable design elements that set it apart from conventional residential projects. A central feature, the wind catcher (Malqaf), is a traditional architectural solution that captures and directs airflow to cool the home naturally. This method significantly reduces reliance on mechanical cooling systems, contributing to overall energy conservation. Additionally, the incorporation of Mashrabiya screens provides privacy and controls sunlight, promoting a comfortable indoor climate without sacrificing openness or connectivity to the outdoors.

Vertical gardens enhance the façade while improving air quality and aesthetic value, demonstrating a commitment to green design. Solar panels are strategically positioned to harness renewable energy, further supporting the project's sustainability goals. The use of locally sourced materials such as concrete, timber, and metal reflects both environmental consciousness and respect for the regional context, emphasizing authenticity in architectural expression.

Functional Layout
The layout of the Iqbal Home is meticulously crafted to facilitate both privacy and community interaction. The ground floor comprises essential spaces such as a garage, guest areas, and a service block, optimizing functionality without compromising comfort. On the first floor, the design includes private bedrooms with terraces, thereby extending living space outdoors and capitalizing on views of the surrounding environment.

Circulation throughout the home is logical and fluid, enhancing the residents' experience. The organization of spaces encourages social interaction while providing individual retreats, a balance that is crucial in modern residential design.

The Iqbal Home project invites further exploration into its architectural plans, sections, and overall design. Readers interested in contemporary architectural ideas and practices should review these elements to gain a deeper understanding of how this project harmonizes tradition with sustainability in a modern context. This examination of the project highlights its relevance within the evolving landscape of Dubai's residential architecture.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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