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Wind Towers and Natural Clay Walls in a Sustainable Residential Design

Authors:
Raquel Santos, Genilson Abreu, Edigio Da Fonseca
Wind Towers and Natural Clay Walls in a Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Leveraging traditional wind towers and natural clay walls, this sustainable residence integrates advanced ventilation and energy-efficient systems to create an environmentally responsive home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional wind towers for natural ventilation.
02
Utilizes natural clay walls for thermal regulation and insulation.
03
Features a rainwater collection system for enhanced sustainability.
04
Integrates solar panels on wind towers for renewable energy generation.
05
Emphasizes community interaction with open and flexible living spaces.
The architectural project "The House of the Future" showcases a residential design that emphasizes sustainability through the integration of traditional elements and modern technologies. Set in Dubai, the project reflects the region’s cultural heritage while incorporating strategies for energy efficiency and environmental harmony. Designed to be self-sufficient, the house employs natural cooling techniques, renewable energy sources, and innovative water management systems to reduce its ecological footprint.

Unique Features of the Design

A distinguishing aspect of the design is the inclusion of wind towers. These traditional structures facilitate natural ventilation, allowing effective air circulation throughout the space. The architecture incorporates natural clay walls which not only provide thermal mass and insulation but also connect the building visually and materially to the surrounding environment. The strategic placement of reversible windows optimizes light entry while ensuring privacy and airflow.

The project also features sustainability innovations such as solar panels installed on the wind towers to harness renewable energy. Additionally, a rainwater collection system enhances the residence's self-sufficiency in water usage, working cohesively with the natural elements of the landscape. The design emphasizes communal space on the ground floor, encouraging social interaction, while the first floor is dedicated to private areas for rest and work, each benefiting from ample light and ventilation.

Functional Zones and Architectural Strategies

The layout is organized into distinct functional zones. The ground floor hosts the main living areas, characterized by large openings offering direct access to outdoor spaces. These areas are designed for flexibility, facilitating both social gathering and daily living activities. The first floor, by contrast, is designed to provide privacy, featuring bedrooms and study areas that maintain comfortable environmental conditions through passive design strategies.

The architectural sections and plans of the house detail the organization and flow between spaces. The design prioritizes effective climate management, employing both passive and active systems to maintain comfortable indoor conditions. The thick exterior walls serve to stabilize the internal climate, minimizing the need for additional heating and cooling systems.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural concepts, design elements, and sustainability strategies employed in "The House of the Future," an exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and specific design choices is encouraged. Engaging with these elements will provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas shaping this innovative project.
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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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