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Woven Palm Fronds and Natural Ventilation in a Sustainable Family Dwelling

Woven Palm Fronds and Natural Ventilation in a Sustainable Family Dwelling
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Combining woven palm fronds for shading and a falaj water system, this sustainable family dwelling offers natural ventilation and efficient resource management in a modern residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes traditional wind catchers for passive cooling and air circulation.
02
Incorporates a falaj water system to enhance sustainability and efficient water management.
03
Features woven palm fronds as a primary material for shading structures.
04
Design includes family pods that optimize space and function for communal living.
05
Employs prefabricated panels to streamline construction and reduce environmental impact.

## Architectural Design Report: ÀL-HOME Project

### Overview
ÀL-HOME is a residential design situated in Dubai, combining contemporary living with traditional design influences and sustainable practices. The project focuses on modularity and adaptability, addressing both functional requirements and aesthetic values while responding to the regional climate through innovative technological solutions. The intent is to create a dwelling that serves as a backdrop for familial growth and interaction, enhancing the overall living experience.

### Spatial Strategy
The spatial organization of ÀL-HOME is concentrated across multiple levels, designed to promote connectivity and fluidity among living spaces. The ground floor accommodates a lobby, main entrance, and distinct functional pods, which include bathrooms, laundry, and storage areas, leading to a shared living and dining environment. Central to this layout is an outdoor courtyard encircled by greenery, facilitating natural ventilation and social interactions. On the upper levels, bedrooms and additional living areas provide privacy while maintaining access to communal spaces, allowing for a balance of individual retreat and community engagement.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The selection of materials within ÀL-HOME reflects an emphasis on durability and environmental responsibility. Woven palm fronds are utilized in shading structures to regulate indoor temperatures by reducing direct sunlight exposure. Prefabricated panels, crafted to meet sustainability standards, enhance the construction process while aligning with a “Cradle to Cradle” philosophy. Additionally, concrete and steel are employed to provide structural integrity necessary for resilience in Dubai's climate.

Incorporating traditional elements, such as the *falaj* irrigation system, the design promotes water conservation while adapting to modern needs. Wind catchers are integrated to utilize natural breezes for passive cooling, lessening reliance on mechanical systems. Sustainable features also include solar panels for energy efficiency and water recycling systems to manage resources effectively in Dubai's arid environment.

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Enter an open architecture
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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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