Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Wool Bricks and Hydro Ceramics Forming Sustainable Living Spaces in a Modern Courtyard Design

Authors:
Mohd Hafiz Bin Mohd Fazillah , Ahmad Afiq Bin Ahmad , Ahmad Khairul Syahmi Bin Ahmad Latfi
Wool Bricks and Hydro Ceramics Forming Sustainable Living Spaces in a Modern Courtyard Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing wool bricks and hydro ceramics, the design integrates traditional elements with modern sustainability in a courtyard layout, fostering community living while adapting to Dubai's climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes wool bricks for enhanced thermal insulation and reduced environmental impact.
02
Incorporates hydro ceramics to regulate indoor temperatures naturally.
03
Features traditional wind catchers for efficient passive cooling.
04
Adopts a central courtyard layout to encourage community interactions and ventilation.
05
Integrates grey water recycling systems to minimize water waste in the household.
The "House of the Future" is an architectural project located in Dubai that seeks to harmonize traditional Middle Eastern architectural elements with modern sustainable practices. This design aims not only to provide a comfortable living space but also emphasizes environmental efficiency and community interaction. Through strategic planning and innovative material use, the project addresses the specific climatic challenges of the region while promoting a sense of identity and belonging among its inhabitants.

Sustainable Energy and Climatic Adaptation
One of the project’s key components is its commitment to sustainability, employing a number of passive cooling strategies to mitigate the effects of Dubai’s extreme temperatures. The design utilizes wind catchers that facilitate natural air circulation, drawing cool air into living spaces. The central courtyard plays a vital role in this cooling strategy, fostering proper ventilation and bringing residents together, thus enhancing social cohesion.

The materiality of the project is carefully selected to reduce environmental impact. Wool bricks, hydro ceramics, pressed aluminum, and natural timber are utilized to construct the building, each chosen for their low carbon footprint and energy efficiency. The integration of solar panels and grey water recycling systems further underscores the project's commitment to achieving sustainability in residential design.

Integration of Community and Cultural Identity
This project is distinguished by its focus on community-centric living. The layout encourages pedestrian-friendly spaces and communal gathering areas, contrasting with conventional residential zoning that often prioritizes vehicle access. By fostering social interaction through thoughtfully designed public spaces, the project promotes a strong sense of community.

Incorporating traditional elements such as arches and domes, the architecture pays homage to historical building forms, thereby strengthening cultural identity while addressing contemporary needs. The design respects the local heritage, creating an environment that resonates with both its historical context and the aspirations of modern living.

Flexible Living Solutions
Flexibility is at the core of the design, with various housing unit configurations catering to different family sizes and lifestyles. This versatility ensures that the project can meet diverse needs, promoting inclusivity and adaptability within the community. The thoughtful configuration of spaces allows residents to cultivate interactions while enjoying private areas for personal activities.

For further insights into the architectural approach, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, which includes detailed architectural plans, architectural sections, and other important architectural designs. This exploration will provide a comprehensive understanding of the innovative ideas and functional elements that define this architectural project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy