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Wind Tower Design Featuring Electrochromic Glass and Coral Stone in a Sustainable Residential Setting

Author:
Klea Braho
Wind Tower Design Featuring Electrochromic Glass and Coral Stone in a Sustainable Residential Setting

Project in-detail

Incorporating a traditional wind tower and electrochromic glass within a sustainable framework, the residence enhances natural cooling and energy efficiency while providing a comfortable family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a traditional wind tower for natural cooling.
02
Utilizes electrochromic glass to optimize daylight and reduce glare.
03
Constructed with locally sourced coral stone for environmental harmony.
04
Features smart home technology for responsive climate control.
05
Designed with expansive communal areas to enhance family interaction.

## Overview

Villa Zephyr is a residence located in Dubai, designed to integrate traditional Emirati architectural elements with modern technology and sustainable practices. This project aims to enhance the daily lives of its inhabitants while prioritizing comfort, efficiency, and cultural relevance. The design reflects a balance between innovation and a respect for the rich heritage of the local community.

## Spatial Organization and Cultural Relevance

The layout of Villa Zephyr emphasizes the communal practices of Emirati culture, featuring large living and dining areas that facilitate social interaction and gatherings. Private bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms provide personal retreats for residents, while dedicated media and open terrace spaces offer opportunities for relaxation and entertainment in a semi-outdoor setting. This zoning strategy reinforces the balance between private and communal life, aligned with the cultural norms prevalent in Emirati society.

## Environmental Considerations and Technological Integration

The material selection is deliberate, focusing on minimizing environmental impact while maintaining functionality in Dubai’s climate. Key materials include concrete for structural stability, marble for durability, and thermal paint to enhance energy efficiency. Notably, the incorporation of a traditional “Barajeel” wind tower enhances natural ventilation, reducing the dependency on artificial cooling systems.

Modern technological features, such as AI-driven HVAC systems and smart irrigation, complement the living experience by optimizing energy consumption and resource management. Additionally, a thoughtfully designed landscape incorporates palm trees and water-efficient planting, creating a natural buffer against heat while supporting sustainability objectives.

Villa Zephyr's architectural aesthetics blend contemporary lines with traditional motifs, utilizing patterned panels for shading that enhance both functionality and visual narrative. This interplay between historical and modern elements contributes to a unified design language while maintaining contextual relevance.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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