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Wind Towers and Mashrabiyas Create Comfortable Living Spaces with Local Stone and Wood

Authors:
Yuri Alogna, Valentina D'accardi
Wind Towers and Mashrabiyas Create Comfortable Living Spaces with Local Stone and Wood

Project in-detail

Utilizing wind towers and traditional mashrabiyas, the design incorporates local stone and sustainable wood to create a climate-responsive living space that enhances comfort and community engagement in an arid environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes wind towers for passive ventilation, enhancing indoor comfort without mechanical cooling.
02
Incorporates traditional mashrabiyas to provide privacy while facilitating airflow and natural lighting.
03
Integrates local stone and sustainably sourced wood to minimize environmental impact and enhance aesthetics.
04
Features a courtyard layout that promotes community interaction and regulates microclimate.
05
Adopts a flexible spatial configuration, allowing for adaptable living spaces to meet various user needs.
The architectural project, Ṣādiqāt Ar-Rih, presents a modern interpretation of traditional Arab architecture, harmonizing cultural elements with contemporary sustainable design principles. Situated in an arid environment, the project emphasizes passive cooling strategies, allowing for a comfortable atmosphere while minimizing energy consumption. Central to its design philosophy is the integration of features that facilitate natural air circulation and light management, drawing inspiration from historical architectural practices.

Passive Cooling Strategies and Cultural Integration

A key element of the design is the incorporation of wind towers, also known as barjeel, which capture and redirect prevailing winds into the building's interior. This feature leverages the natural climate conditions to enhance indoor comfort while reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. The strategic placement of courtyards throughout the site serves dual purposes: they provide communal gathering spaces and act as thermal regulators that contribute to ambient cooling. The design incorporates mashrabiyas, traditional wooden lattice screens that control sunlight and airflow, allowing for amplified natural ventilation and privacy.

The project is distinctive in its capacity to resonate with the immediate cultural context. By integrating local architectural language into the design, it reinforces community identity while simultaneously addressing modern living requirements. The use of natural materials, such as locally sourced stone and sustainably harvested wood, adds authenticity and warmth to both the exterior and interior aesthetics.

Adaptable Spaces and Sustainable Features

Further distinguishing features of Ṣādiqāt Ar-Rih include the incorporation of flexible spatial configurations. Interior spaces can be adjusted and repurposed to accommodate a variety of activities, enhancing usability and relevance in everyday life. Movable walls allow for easy modifications to the layout, reflecting the dynamic needs of its occupants.

Additionally, the project employs sustainable technologies, including photovoltaic systems integrated into the building’s roof. This aspect significantly reduces energy costs and environmental impact, aligning the project with contemporary sustainability standards. Throughout the design, the emphasis on natural materials combined with advanced energy systems underscores a commitment to environmentally responsible architecture.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of Ṣādiqāt Ar-Rih, reviewing architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide further insight into the innovative ideas driving this project. Engage with the presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its design intricacies and architectural significance.
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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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