Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Wind-Catcher Design Featuring Glass Fiber-Reinforced Concrete and Sustainable Landscaping for Modern Living

Wind-Catcher Design Featuring Glass Fiber-Reinforced Concrete and Sustainable Landscaping for Modern Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating a contemporary wind-catcher structure made from Glass Fiber-Reinforced Concrete, this villa maximizes natural ventilation and light while seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces for a modern family living experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a contemporary wind-catcher for enhanced natural airflow.
02
Utilizes Glass Fiber-Reinforced Concrete for durability and design flexibility.
03
Features a seamless connection between indoor living areas and outdoor gardens.
04
Employs extensive landscaping as a cooling strategy to reduce heat gain.
05
Balances traditional cultural elements with modern functional design principles.
The project is a residential villa designed to embody modern architectural principles while reflecting aspects of traditional Emirati culture. Its primary function is to provide a comfortable living space that accommodates family life while enhancing interaction with the surrounding environment. The architectural layout integrates indoor and outdoor spaces, making use of natural light and ventilation to create a sustainable living environment.

The villa features a distinctive façade characterized by a series of arched elements, reminiscent of classic wind-catcher structures. This architectural decision not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also enhances air circulation within the home. Large, double-glazed windows ensure ample daylight while minimizing heat gain, effectively addressing the challenges posed by the local climate. The choice of materials, including Glass Fiber-Reinforced Concrete for the exterior and natural stone for flooring, reflects a commitment to durability and environmental sustainability.

Unique Design Approaches in Climate Adaptation

The design employs innovative strategies for climate adaptation, notably through the integration of passive cooling techniques. The wind-catcher is not merely a replicated form but a functional element that enhances airflow throughout the villa. Operable windows and strategically placed skylights facilitate cross-ventilation and reduce reliance on mechanical air conditioning. Landscaping elements, such as vertical gardens, are used to lower surrounding temperatures, promoting a cooler microclimate.

The layout divides public and private spaces effectively. The ground floor includes shared areas such as a living room and majlis that are designed for social interaction, while bedrooms are positioned for privacy. A seamless connection between interiors and gardens facilitates outdoor activities and reinforces the villa’s relationship with its natural surroundings.

Sustainability Features and Material Choices

The project prioritizes sustainability through its material choices and energy-efficient design. The use of Light Steel Frame construction allows for a modular and efficient building process. This structural choice enhances the resilience of the villa while also allowing flexibility in design. Natural materials like wood introduce warmth in interior spaces, balancing modernity with cultural elements.

The overall orientation of the building is carefully planned to maximize natural lighting and minimize energy consumption. Extensive shadow studies and sun path analysis inform window placements, allowing residents to enjoy natural light without excessive heat gain. This thoughtful approach to sustainability highlights the importance of energy efficiency in modern architectural design, particularly in arid environments.

For a more in-depth exploration of this architectural project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas, readers are encouraged to review the complete project presentation. This will provide further insights into the innovative design solutions employed throughout the villa.
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 17,249 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