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Wind Towers and Bright Straw Construction for Sustainable Family Living in Desert Oasis

Authors:
Farbod Emambakhsh Mehraz, Narges Samadimirzaee, Niousha Ghodratichalaresi
Wind Towers and Bright Straw Construction for Sustainable Family Living in Desert Oasis

Project in-detail

Employing bright straw and wind towers, the design integrates traditional Emirati elements with sustainable living, creating a family home that harmonizes with the desert environment while optimizing energy efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes bright straw as a primary insulation material to enhance thermal performance.
02
Incorporates wind towers to facilitate natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling.
03
Features a series of interconnected courtyards that promote privacy and outdoor engagement.
04
Employs a Majlis space designed for cultural gatherings, reflecting traditional Emirati values.
05
Integrates solar panels seamlessly into the roof design for energy efficiency.
The Dubai Future House is a contemporary architectural project situated in Arabian Ranches, Dubai. This residential structure reflects a thoughtful synthesis of modern design principles and traditional Emirati elements. The project emphasizes sustainable living and cultural resonance, addressing the unique climatic and social aspects of the region while providing a functional living environment.

The design incorporates multiple courtyards, enhancing privacy and promoting natural ventilation. The architectural layout includes a Majlis for social gatherings, spacious living areas, and bedrooms that are thoughtfully arranged around the courtyards, offering direct access to outdoor spaces. This arrangement not only facilitates airflow but also fosters both community interaction and personal retreat, which is essential in the hot climate of Dubai.

Innovative Spatial Configuration
A key feature of the Dubai Future House is its innovative spatial configuration. Unlike traditional designs that rely on a singular central courtyard, this structure employs a series of four distinct courtyards, each serving a designated purpose. This allows for a dynamic flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring optimal privacy while maintaining a sense of openness. The integration of a swimming pool adjacent to the bedrooms enhances the visual connection to the main courtyard and utilizes the thermal dynamics of the environment.

Sustainable Design Approaches
The project showcases a strong commitment to sustainability through its material choices and energy-efficient design strategies. Key materials include bright straw, wood, and mesh panels, all selected for their cultural significance and thermal performance. Bright straw is particularly effective in mitigating heat transfer, while wood elements provide warmth and connection to traditional Emirati aesthetics. The use of solar panels contributes to the building's energy independence, aligning with contemporary environmental standards.

Passive cooling strategies such as wind towers further complement the architecture. These structures harness natural ventilation, reducing dependence on mechanical cooling systems. The careful consideration of local climate conditions is evident in the architectural decisions, highlighting the project's emphasis on eco-friendly living.

Explore the presentation of the Dubai Future House to gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs. Discover the unique ideas that make this project an exemplary model for contemporary residential architecture in Dubai.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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