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Wind Catcher and Breeze Block Design in a Modern Family Residence

Author:
Huda Ali Hamad Eissa Almahri
Wind Catcher and Breeze Block Design in a Modern Family Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing a wind catcher and breeze blocks for natural ventilation, the design incorporates an inner courtyard that connects indoor and outdoor spaces, catering to modern family living needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a wind catcher to enhance natural air circulation throughout the home.
02
Incorporates breeze blocks in the façade for ventilation while maintaining visual appeal.
03
Features an inner courtyard that promotes interaction with nature from interior spaces.
04
Designed with strategic orientation to optimize passive cooling and thermal comfort.
05
Integrates a herb garden within the kitchen, emphasizing sustainable living practices.
The architectural design project, "Old is Gold," presents a comprehensive approach to modern residential needs through a lens of traditional design principles. This project occupies a 450 square meter site and integrates the concepts of natural cooling and privacy often found in historical architecture. By combining contemporary functionality with a respect for past design methodologies, the project offers a unique solution for comfortable living.

The building is organized into two stories, maximizing spatial efficiency while adapting to contemporary lifestyles. The ground floor consists of essential communal spaces such as a living room, dining area, kitchen, herb garden, and laundry facilities, promoting an easy flow among the different areas. The first floor includes four individual bedrooms, each with attached bathrooms, as well as additional recreational spaces like a gym, reinforcing the notion of private retreats within the home.

Structural elements of the design leverage locally relevant materials while enhancing thermal performance. The utilization of breeze blocks, measuring 200mm x 400mm x 100mm, is central to the façade, allowing for ventilation and light while maintaining visual interest. Large glass windows offer views and ample daylighting, fostering a connection between indoor and outdoor environments. The use of concrete and steel serves to ensure structural integrity through significant spans, compliant with modern safety standards.

Unique Design Aspects
The "Old is Gold" project distinguishes itself through a contemporary reinterpretation of traditional architectural elements. The integration of a wind catcher is a prominent feature that facilitates natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. By capturing prevailing breezes, the building promotes indoor air circulation, enhancing comfort without excessive energy use.

The layout showcases an inner courtyard that serves multiple functions: it acts as a central recreational space, enhances daylight access to surrounding rooms, and contributes to the building’s overall microclimate. This approach emphasizes the importance of outdoor living areas in residential design, recognizing their role in family interaction and well-being.

Moreover, the architectural composition exhibits a deliberate rhythm in its façade through the interplay of solid and void spaces created by the breeze blocks. This not only addresses thermal performance but also introduces a visual dynamism that changes throughout the day with shifting sunlight.

Sustainability is a key focal point in this project, with passive climate control measures embedded into the architectural framework. The careful orientation of the building in relation to sunlight and wind patterns optimizes energy efficiency while prioritizing user comfort.

Architectural Strategies for Sustainable Living
While focusing on sustainability, this project maintains a user-centered design philosophy. Each space is crafted to meet contemporary lifestyle preferences, without compromising on the principles of natural ventilation, privacy, and energy efficiency. The architectural strategies employed here encourage residents to engage with their environment thoughtfully, fostering a sense of community and connection to the locality.

The comprehensive nature of "Old is Gold" exemplifies a refined understanding of both historical architectural practices and modern living demands. By merging these distinct facets, the project stands as a viable model for practitioners interested in crafting sustainable and functional living environments.

For further exploration of the intricate details of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and specific design implementations, please review the complete project presentation. Here, you will gain deeper insights into the innovative architectural ideas that shape "Old is Gold."
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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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