Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Aluminum Mashrabiya and Natural Light Define Sustainable Living Spaces Through Flexible Design

Aluminum Mashrabiya and Natural Light Define Sustainable Living Spaces Through Flexible Design
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Incorporating aluminum mashrabiya and ample natural light, this villa achieves a harmonious balance of sustainable design and flexible living, tailored to meet the evolving needs of modern families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a courtyard design that enhances ventilation and natural light.
02
Utilizes aluminum mashrabiya for privacy while maintaining airflow.
03
Features a flexible room layout adaptable for changing family needs.
04
Showcases exterior walls finished with durable beige travertine for climate resilience.
05
Integrates an LPG gas system to promote energy efficiency in cooking.

### Project Overview
Villa Elegante is situated in Dubai and is part of the Dubai Government's initiative to provide innovative housing solutions for Emirati citizens, conceptualized under the Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment. The design aims to create a sustainable living environment that reflects Dubai's cultural and environmental context, prioritizing flexibility, aesthetic appeal, and adaptability to meet the evolving needs of its residents.

### Layout and Spatial Configuration
The villa is structured across three floors with a focus on maximizing both functionality and visual continuity. Key features include multi-purpose spaces on the first level that can adapt to various uses, such as additional bedrooms or play areas, enhancing family interactions. The integration of two backyard gardens connects indoor living areas with outdoor spaces, while a central courtyard serves as a multi-functional hub, providing relaxation areas and visual connections to nature for visitors and residents alike. Each floor is designed with balconies and terraces that facilitate outdoor engagement and further establish ties to the external environment.

### Materiality and Energy Efficiency
Material selection emphasizes practicality and local climate compatibility. Key components include aluminum channel frames for durability, aluminum geometric mashrabiya for privacy and light control, beige travertine for visual harmony with the surroundings, and white textured paint for contrast. This material strategy not only enhances the visual cohesion of the design but is also grounded in sustainability, favoring local and environmentally friendly resources. The project incorporates energy-efficient systems, such as low-flow sanitary fixtures and a strategic building orientation to optimize natural light and ventilation, thereby minimizing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems. These design decisions reflect a commitment to sustainability and the comfort of residents.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
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

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

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
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

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 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in