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Wind Tower Residence Integrating Limestone and Natural Ventilation Techniques

Author:
Nikoloz Menabde
Wind Tower Residence Integrating Limestone and Natural Ventilation Techniques

Project in-detail

Incorporating traditional wind tower cooling and robust limestone facades, this residence emphasizes natural ventilation and adaptability while creating a functional living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a traditional wind tower for passive cooling.
02
Incorporates locally sourced limestone for thermal mass.
03
Features flexible living spaces adaptable for future changes.
04
Integrates extensive natural ventilation with cross-ventilation openings.
05
Includes outdoor courtyards to enhance indoor-outdoor connectivity.

### Overview

Located in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the architectural design project exemplifies a balance between traditional principles and contemporary practices. The intent is to create a living environment that respects the region's cultural heritage while adapting to modern needs. Emphasizing features such as natural ventilation and flexible living spaces, the design engages with the historical and environmental context of its location.

### Material Selection

The choice of materials plays a significant role in both the aesthetics and functionality of the building. Limestone, extensively used for the walls, offers a robust yet refined appearance and serves to regulate indoor temperatures through its thermal mass. Wood is incorporated for shelters and decorative features, providing shade and establishing a natural connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Large glass openings facilitate natural light while enhancing visual links to the exterior. Aluminum is utilized in structural framing and shading devices, aligning with contemporary design elements.

### Spatial Configuration

The spatial organization is characterized by a clear delineation between private and communal zones. Common areas include a living room, dining space, and Majlis, intentionally oriented towards a central courtyard to foster interaction while preserving privacy. Private quarters, including bedrooms, open onto this courtyard, promoting intimacy and a connection to nature. The layout also considers future adaptability, with provisions for extensions to accommodate evolving family dynamics. Outdoor areas, including shaded seating and gardens, are designed to encourage outdoor living, improving the overall quality of life.

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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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