Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Volcanic Ash Masonry and Louvered Shading in a Contemporary Family Home

Author:
Marwan Flamiano Tuttuh
Volcanic Ash Masonry and Louvered Shading in a Contemporary Family Home

Project in-detail

Utilizing volcanic ash masonry and strategically placed louvered screens, the design enhances thermal efficiency while fostering communal spaces within a contemporary family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Volcanic ash masonry provides superior thermal insulation for energy efficiency.
02
Louvered shading devices optimize natural light while reducing heat gain.
03
A semi-enclosed courtyard enhances privacy and encourages social interaction.
04
Custom-made wooden panels feature traditional patterns, linking heritage to modernity.
05
Vertical expansion accommodates future family needs without disrupting design integrity.
The Wesal House is a contemporary residential project located in Dubai, embodying a blend of traditional Emirati architecture with modern design principles. This project focuses on enhancing the quality of living through thoughtful spatial organization, material selection, and climatic adaptation. The architecture reflects cultural values, providing spaces that encourage social interaction and promote a sense of community while ensuring privacy for its occupants.

The project features a central semi-enclosed courtyard that serves as a pivotal element, fostering interaction among family members while allowing for cooling breezes and natural light penetration. The layout strategically organizes functions across multiple levels, with the ground floor designated for gatherings and communal activities, and private quarters located on the upper levels. The overall design aims to create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, reinforcing the connection to the environment.

Design Innovation and Cultural Integration

Wesal House distinguishes itself from conventional residential designs through its integration of cultural elements within a modern framework. The incorporation of a Majlis, or traditional gathering space, not only serves functional needs but also strengthens the cultural narrative of hospitality central to Emirati society. This space, combined with an open kitchen and dining area, caters to family gatherings and social events, reflecting a culture that values community interaction.

The use of volcanic ash Concrete Masonry Units (CMUs) for construction provides excellent thermal insulation, significantly reducing the need for mechanical cooling. Along with extensive glazing, these materials allow for ample natural light while minimizing heat gain. Exterior shading devices, such as louvered screens, showcase a practical approach to manage heat, reinforcing the building's efficiency while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

The Wesal House is methodically organized into distinct functional zones. The ground floor includes the main entrance, foyer, guest facilities, and communal living spaces. This level effectively facilitates social interactions and gatherings, providing direct access to the courtyard. The first floor hosts private living quarters, ensuring comfort and privacy, featuring well-equipped bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms.

The layout allows for vertical expansion, accommodating future residential needs without compromising the integrity of the existing design. The roof deck serves as an outdoor recreational area, enhancing the usability of the space and providing panoramic views. Each element of the structure has been thoughtfully considered to optimize both flow and functionality, creating a cohesive living environment.

The Wesal House serves as a competent example of how architecture can bridge cultural traditions with contemporary needs. Its unique design approaches make it a versatile and functional residence suited for modern living while upholding the values of Emirati heritage. To explore more about this project and its architectural plans, sections, and design elements, interested readers are encouraged to review the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its innovative features and design philosophy.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16,979 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy