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Wind Towers and Natural Ventilation in a Sustainable Family Home Constructed with AAC Blocks and Wood

Author:
Rita Touma
Wind Towers and Natural Ventilation in a Sustainable Family Home Constructed with AAC Blocks and Wood

Project in-detail

Constructed with aerated autoclaved concrete and warm wood accents, this family dwelling integrates wind towers and natural ventilation to create a sustainable living environment that fosters community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using aerated autoclaved concrete, providing enhanced thermal performance.
02
Incorporates wind towers for natural ventilation and passive cooling.
03
Features a central courtyard that fosters family interaction and outdoor living.
04
Utilizes locally sourced wood elements to connect the structure with its environment.
05
Designed with flexible spaces that can adapt to the evolving needs of the family.

## Overview
Located in the urban landscape of the United Arab Emirates, the project embodies a contemporary interpretation of traditional Emirati architecture, specifically drawing inspiration from the *khayma*, a tent-like structure that emphasizes community and family gatherings. This design seeks to merge modernity with cultural heritage while promoting sustainability and responding to the evolving lifestyle of families in Dubai.

### Spatial Configuration
The architectural layout is carefully crafted to facilitate both communal and private interactions. Central to the design is the *Al Khayma place*, which serves as a gathering hub for family members, reflecting a thoughtful balance between indoor and outdoor living spaces. The incorporation of traditional *courtyard houses* enhances interpersonal connections while ensuring privacy in designated areas.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
A diverse range of materials has been selected to support the project's identity and functional aims. Aerated Autoclaved Concrete (AAC) blocks are employed for their environmental efficiency, while various shades of wood create an inviting atmosphere and contribute to the aesthetic with wooden *moucharabieh* features that enhance privacy. The use of white plaster adds brightness to interiors, and double-glazed glass improves thermal insulation and energy efficiency. Key sustainable elements include rainwater harvesting systems, photovoltaic panels, and natural ventilation methods inspired by traditional wind towers, all adapted to address the challenges posed by the desert climate.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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