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Woven Palm Fronds and Natural Ventilation in A Sustainable Family Dwelling

Authors:
Mehdi Gharibi, Shima Kheyri
Woven Palm Fronds and Natural Ventilation in A Sustainable Family Dwelling

Project in-detail

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.

The ÀL-HOME project is a contemporary residential design situated in Dubai, characterized by its emphasis on sustainability, functionality, and cultural sensitivity. The architecture reflects a modern interpretation of traditional living while addressing the specifics of its geographic context. The design integrates indoor and outdoor spaces, prioritizing natural light and ventilation to create a comfortable and efficient living environment.

Spatial Organization The layout of ÀL-HOME is organized over multiple levels to facilitate both communal and private living. The ground floor features a welcoming lobby and various 'pods' that incorporate essential utility functions such as bathrooms and laundry rooms. This configuration leads into a shared living and dining area, which is seamlessly connected to an outdoor courtyard. The design prioritizes access to green spaces, encouraging social interactions among residents. The upper levels are dedicated to private quarters, ensuring a balance between communal life and personal space.

Materiality and Construction ÀL-HOME employs a selection of materials designed to enhance durability while minimizing environmental impact. Woven palm fronds are used for shading elements that contribute to thermal comfort within the home. Prefabricated panels streamline the construction process and reflect a commitment to sustainability, adhering to the principles of resource efficiency. Concrete and steel provide the necessary structural integrity to withstand the extreme conditions typical of the Dubai climate. Each material choice reflects an understanding of local traditions and modern building practices.

Innovative Design Features ÀL-HOME distinguishes itself through several innovative design approaches. One notable aspect is the incorporation of traditional wind catchers that facilitate passive ventilation, enhancing air circulation while reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. Additionally, the project incorporates a falaj system, historically used for water management, which serves as a modern adaptation promoting water conservation practices. Solar panels installed on the roof contribute to energy efficiency, further supporting the project’s sustainability goals.

Environmental Considerations The initiative reflects a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. Water recycling systems are integrated to manage resources efficiently, addressing the challenges of Dubai's arid climate. The project's orientation and architectural form are designed to maximize natural light and minimize heat gain, reducing energy consumption.

Readers interested in detailed architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural ideas that influenced the ÀL-HOME project are encouraged to explore the project presentation. A closer examination of these elements will provide deeper insights into the design and operational efficiency of this residential space.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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