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Windcatcher Design Enhancing Natural Ventilation with Sustainable Materials

Authors:
Feras Mhd Marwan Alrefai, Ayah.m A.alsabbagh , Mohamad Anas Alhabri, Mosab Athamneh, Moawiah Ahmad Mohammad Athamneh
Windcatcher Design Enhancing Natural Ventilation with Sustainable Materials

Project in-detail

Incorporating a windcatcher for passive cooling and large glass panels to enhance natural light, the design harmoniously integrates sustainable materials to create a modern residential space in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional windcatchers for natural ventilation.
02
Utilizes large glass panels for seamless indoor-outdoor flow.
03
Features an innovative bent A-frame structure for architectural intrigue.
04
Employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
05
Integrates sustainable landscaping within the design for ecological balance.
The "House of the Future in Dubai" represents a significant evolution in residential architecture by integrating sustainable practices with modern living. This project is designed for a dynamic urban environment while respecting the cultural context of its location. It emphasizes functionality alongside aesthetic considerations, addressing the needs of contemporary inhabitants.

Sustainable Architecture and Material Choices
The project extensively utilizes concrete for its structural foundation, ensuring durability and strength. Gypsum is employed for interior walls to provide effective thermal insulation and a clean finish. Large glass panels maximize natural light, reducing electricity consumption and enhancing the visual connection with the external landscape. Wood accents throughout the design offer warmth, creating a juxtaposition with the cooler materials and aiding in the overall atmosphere of comfort. Metal screens are strategically implemented to provide shading and privacy, reinforcing the building’s adaptability to climactic conditions.

Design Layout and Spatial Organization
The layout features a blend of open communal spaces and private rooms. The emphasis on shared areas fosters community interaction, critical in urban housing. Each private space, including bedrooms and bathrooms, is designed for seclusion, equipped with modern amenities that reflect current lifestyle expectations. The incorporation of green spaces within the project not only enhances the aesthetic but also improves air quality and contributes to a serene living environment.

Innovative Ventilation and Cooling Systems
A hallmark of this design is the integration of a wind catcher, a traditional architectural feature reinterpreted for modern needs. This passive cooling system allows for the capture and circulation of natural breezes throughout the home, reducing reliance on mechanical systems for cooling. Additionally, the spaces are configured to promote natural ventilation, featuring strategically placed openings that enhance airflow and light access, thus supporting a sustainable ecological footprint.

The "House of the Future" challenges conventional residential design by prioritizing energy efficiency, adaptability, and aesthetic appeal. Its unique combination of traditional and modern elements, along with a commitment to sustainability, positions it as a noteworthy contribution to contemporary architecture in Dubai.

To explore this project further, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed design ideas, we encourage a deeper investigation into the presentation materials available. Engaging with these resources will provide enhanced insights into the architectural concepts and innovative strategies employed in this 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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