SHP - Sustainable Housing Project

University of Baghdad, College of Engineering

Project idea

Designing a masterplan for a 500-unit sustainable housing project, in response to the housing crisis in Iraq and specifically Baghdad.

The project aims to revitalise the northern part of Al-Aaras Island, a strategic location in the heart of Baghdad that overlooks the Tigris River, which has been neglected and polluted for decades. The site covers an area of 12 hectares (120,000 square metres).

The project seeks to create a vibrant and sustainable urban environment that respects the existing context and enhances the quality of life for the residents and visitors.

The project would aim to provide affordable and energy-efficient residences, and create a model of urban development that respects the environment and the local culture.

Project description

The design for the 500-unit sustainable housing project consists of 11 residential buildings as well as 20 eco-villas that are arranged in clusters along a main spine, which connects the clusters and provides access to semi-public spaces for each cluster. The semi-public spaces include green areas, playgrounds, and seating areas.

The project aims to achieve sustainability by incorporating features such as shaded façades, energy efficient units, green spaces and roofs, rainwater harvesting, and waste management. The project also caters to the needs of the residents by providing services such as a supermarket and a gym for each cluster.

Additionally, the project includes a couple of schools, an amphitheatre overlooking the Tigris River, and a shopping mall that serve the larger community. The project demonstrates a balance between social, environmental, and economic aspects of sustainable design.

Technical information

The design of the housing project prioritizes sustainability and environmental performance.

The building material for walls of the buildings is brick, which is locally-sourced and has low embodied energy.

The façades are covered with fibreglass fabric, which acts as a passive cooling system by reducing solar radiation and creating natural ventilation.

The project also incorporates green spaces and roofs that enhance thermal comfort.

The reinforced concrete shell of the eco-villas is covered by a green wall system, which massively reduces heat gains.