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Wind Towers and Mudbrick Integration in Climate-Responsive Housing

Authors:
Fengyi Wang, Zi Shan Lim
Wind Towers and Mudbrick Integration in Climate-Responsive Housing

Project in-detail

Incorporating wind towers for natural ventilation and crafted from sustainable mudbrick, this residence offers a climate-responsive solution that enhances community living and environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates wind towers to enhance natural ventilation throughout the home.
02
Utilizes locally sourced mudbrick for sustainable thermal mass and insulation.
03
Features integrated landscaping that supports local biodiversity and aesthetic continuity.
04
Design includes adaptable spaces that can evolve with occupants' changing needs.
05
Central courtyard fosters community interaction while connecting indoor and outdoor environments.
The Wāha Series serves as an innovative architectural response to contemporary housing needs, emphasizing sustainability, adaptability, and community engagement. This project redefines residential living by merging indoor and outdoor spaces, offering a harmonious balance between functionality and environmental integration. The architectural design incorporates distinct forms and materials, fostering an environment that reacts to climatic conditions and user requirements.

Designing with Climate in Mind

The Wāha Series adopts a climate-responsive approach that prioritizes passive design strategies. It features wind towers that facilitate natural ventilation, maximizing airflow while reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. The architectural layout encourages natural light penetration, with strategically placed glass elements that enhance the connection between the interior and the exterior landscape. The use of mud bricks and clay plaster not only offers thermal mass for temperature regulation but also aligns with sustainable building practices. This emphasis on natural materials contributes to the home's ecological footprint while enhancing its aesthetic quality.

Unique Community-Centric Planning

Unlike conventional residential projects, the Wāha Series incorporates communal spaces designed to promote family interaction and neighborly relations. Specific areas, such as the central courtyard and integrated landscaping, function as gathering points that foster a sense of community. The layout encourages social activities while providing secluded spaces for personal retreat. Additionally, the design includes flexible spaces that can adapt over time to the changing needs of occupants, reflecting a thoughtful consideration of long-term habitation rather than transient use.

Innovative Material Choices and Construction Techniques

The material selection for the Wāha Series is intentional and sensitive to both its environment and purpose. Mud bricks provide durability while promoting a connection to local building traditions. The inclusion of wood and concrete offers structural support and a natural aesthetic, ensuring that the project is both functional and visually cohesive. The design balances these materials with modern construction techniques, allowing for efficient assembly while maintaining the integrity of traditional craftsmanship.

For those interested in architectural details, further examination of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs of the Wāha Series will provide deeper insights into its innovative approach and comprehensive planning.
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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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