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3d Printed Concrete and Living Walls Defining Sustainable Urban Living in a Desert Environment

3d Printed Concrete and Living Walls Defining Sustainable Urban Living in a Desert Environment
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Utilizing 3D printed concrete and integrated living walls, this sustainable residence optimizes energy efficiency while fostering community connections in a desert urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
3D printed concrete construction minimizes material waste and allows for intricate design details.
02
Living walls integrate native plant species for enhanced biodiversity and natural cooling.
03
Modular space configurations enable adaptable living arrangements for changing family needs.
04
Solar panels are seamlessly integrated into the design, enhancing energy self-sufficiency.
05
Community-focused outdoor areas promote social interaction and strengthen neighborhood ties.

## Overview
Located in Dubai, this residential design prioritizes sustainability and innovative building techniques within a rapidly evolving urban context. The project aims to integrate advanced technology with environmentally responsible practices, enhancing both individual living experiences and the well-being of the community. The framework promotes a symbiotic relationship between inhabitants and their environment, redefining the concept of home as both a shelter and an active contributor to the ecosystem.

## Spatial Configuration
The architectural massing employs simple geometric forms, primarily rectangular shapes, influenced by traditional vernacular architecture. This choice ensures efficient spatial utilization while reflecting the cultural aesthetics inherent to Dubai. Notable is the modular arrangement, enabling flexible internal configurations that adapt to varying programmatic requirements. The design promotes versatility, ensuring optimized usage across diverse living spaces.

## Material Selection
The project's material choices underscore its commitment to sustainability. Key components include:
- **3D Printed Concrete**: This method reduces waste and allows for rapid construction, facilitating complex design elements while maintaining structural integrity.
- **Living Wall Systems**: Incorporating plant life into building facades enhances natural cooling, aesthetics, and biodiversity.
- **Solar Panels**: These are integrated into the design to harness renewable energy, contributing to the project's self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on traditional energy sources.

## Community Integration
The design emphasizes the creation of a cohesive community through shared spaces that promote social interaction among residents. Carefully designed landscaping blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living, enhancing communal engagement and responsibility. Outdoor features such as shade structures offer relief from the sun while serving as venues for gatherings. The integration of natural landscaping also supports urban biodiversity and contributes to ecological sustainability within the metropolitan environment of Dubai.

## Functional Elements
The project's use of advanced technologies is fundamental to its innovative approach. Key features include:
- **Modular Construction Techniques**: These enhance customization options and allow for adaptable living spaces that can evolve alongside resident needs.
- **Automated Irrigation Systems**: These systems work in concert with living wall technology, optimizing water usage in a sustainable manner.
- **Energy Generation Systems**: By utilizing solar energy, the design addresses both energy efficiency and the potential for surplus energy contribution to the local grid.

This comprehensive approach highlights the project's dedication to aesthetic appeal, technological integration, and community enhancement while addressing environmental challenges in urban living.

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The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
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Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
The Home of 
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The Home of Shadows
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The Architect's 
Chair
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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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