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Wind Catcher and Fiber Cement Walls Enhance Sustainability in Emirati Residential Design

Authors:
James Clive Wong Quai Lam, Mohammad Sakirkhan Ahroodkhan
Wind Catcher and Fiber Cement Walls Enhance Sustainability in Emirati Residential Design

Project in-detail

Crafted with a wind catcher and enhanced by fiber cement walls, the design incorporates sustainable practices to create a modern residential space that fosters community and individuality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a central courtyard for enhanced natural light and ventilation.
02
Features a traditional wind catcher to optimize passive cooling.
03
Utilizes fiber cement walls for durability and energy efficiency.
04
Employs rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management.
05
Integrates mashrabiya screens for privacy while allowing light control.

### Project Overview

Located within the context of Emirati heritage, the design integrates traditional architectural elements with contemporary aesthetics to create a distinctive residential environment. The intent is to establish a harmonious relationship between comfort, sustainability, and cultural significance, contributing meaningfully to the evolution of modern Emirati architecture.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The design employs a "Mudarah" conceptual framework, which emphasizes the blend of past, present, and future. Central to the layout is a double-volume structure surrounding a central courtyard, a feature inspired by traditional Arabian homes that fosters communal living. This courtyard serves as the main gathering point, enhancing both privacy and natural light, thereby promoting a balanced social atmosphere.

Within the residence, double-height living spaces encourage interaction, while private areas, such as the master suite with its dedicated lounge and outdoor access, offer personal retreats. The spatial arrangement is designed to accommodate a diverse range of users, ensuring that both communal gatherings and individual experiences are valued.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project employs a variety of materials that reflect local character while ensuring structural integrity and energy efficiency. Notable materials include fiber cement board for walls, concrete shear walls for stability, and polystyrene panels to improve thermal insulation. The innovative use of insulation panels and advanced glazing systems further enhances energy performance by maximizing natural light while minimizing heat gain.

A focal point of the sustainability strategy is the integration of an insulated shear wall system alongside a wind catcher designed for natural ventilation, thereby reducing dependence on mechanical cooling. Additional sustainable features include a solar farm for renewable energy generation, rainwater harvesting systems for irrigation, and an efficient waste management strategy that includes greywater treatment. These elements collectively contribute to a reduced environmental impact and support the project's commitment to sustainable living.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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