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Wind Catchers and GRC Facades in a Sustainable Courtyard Residence

Wind Catchers and GRC Facades in a Sustainable Courtyard Residence

Project in-detail

Integrating wind catchers and GRC facades, this residence employs sustainable materials to enhance natural ventilation while providing an adaptable living space within a courtyard layout.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates wind catchers for natural ventilation and reduced energy use.
02
Utilizes GRC facades for lightweight durability and aesthetic flexibility.
03
Features private rooftop gardens to enhance urban green space.
04
Integrates open courtyards that foster communal interaction and light penetration.
05
Employs strategic thermal insulation with lime plaster for energy efficiency.
The architectural project titled "Future House Roots" embodies a contemporary interpretation of traditional courtyard housing. It effectively merges regional climatic considerations with modern living principles, creating a residential design that is both functional and aesthetically coherent. The project prioritizes sustainability, utilizing natural ventilation and open spaces to enhance livability while fostering a connection to its cultural heritage.

Design Functionality
The "Future House Roots" project serves as a versatile residential space, accommodating various family setups through adaptable designs. Its structure comprises multiple configurations, including individual, twin, and stacked layouts. Each design variant responds to specific site conditions and user requirements. The incorporation of courtyards promotes air circulation and sunlight penetration, ensuring comfortable indoor environments.

The project features three distinct levels, each with a designated purpose. The ground floor integrates private living areas complemented by gardens and communal entryways. The first floor accommodates family bedrooms, enhancing privacy while allowing access to outdoor spaces. The roof level provides recreational areas, further expanding the living experience beyond traditional confines.

Unique Design Approaches
One notable aspect of this project is its focus on materiality. Strategically selected materials include concrete, lime plaster, and glass-reinforced concrete (GRC). These materials are chosen for their durability, insulation properties, and aesthetic qualities, contributing to the overall sustainability of the architecture.

The design also features wind catchers—elements that harness natural airflow for ventilation. This genuine approach to passive cooling minimizes energy consumption, aligning with sustainable architectural practices. Additionally, the integration of private rooftops as green spaces enhances the architectural footprint, creating opportunities for urban greening and leisure.

Architectural Proportions and Detailing
The elevation of the structure displays a balanced composition of solids and voids, reinforcing the interaction between indoor spaces and outdoor environments. The thoughtful placement of openings allows for ample natural light while maintaining privacy. Circulation within the home is designed to be intuitive, with an open-plan layout facilitating easy movement among various functional areas.

Landscaping surrounds the structure, merging the built environment with natural elements. This integration not only enhances the aesthetic value of the project but also contributes to improved microclimatic conditions around the building.

Explore the project presentation for further insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas employed in "Future House Roots." By examining these elements, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the design strategies that define this unique architectural endeavor.
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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
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