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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.

### Overview
The House of the Future in Dubai represents a significant advancement in residential architecture, set within the context of Dubai's dynamic urban landscape. This project aims to merge traditional design elements with modern functional requirements, addressing the challenges of contemporary living in arid environments.

### Material and Aesthetic Strategy
The project employs a diverse palette of materials, chosen for their functional and symbolic properties. Concrete serves as the primary structural material, ensuring durability, while gypsum is utilized for interior walls to enhance thermal insulation and achieve a refined finish. Large glass panels are strategically placed to maximize natural light, establish a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, and promote energy efficiency. Wood elements introduce warmth, contrasting with the cooler tones of concrete and glass, while metal screens provide shading and privacy, facilitating ventilation.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience
The design prioritizes an interconnected layout that fosters both communal interactions and private retreats. Shared spaces are designed as open-plan areas that encourage social engagement, complemented by individual rooms equipped with en-suite bathrooms and walk-in closets for comfort and privacy. The integration of landscaped "green pockets" within the structure enhances both the aesthetic appeal and air quality, contributing to the overall well-being of residents. Unique features such as a modernized wind catcher and a natural ventilation system optimize passive cooling and airflow, underscoring the project's commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency.

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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
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