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Biomimetic Water Harvesting with Hollowcore Walls and Sustainable Materials for Humid Climates

Biomimetic Water Harvesting with Hollowcore Walls and Sustainable Materials for Humid Climates
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Harnessing biomimetic principles, this residence employs a rainwater harvesting system alongside hollowcore walls and sustainable materials to effectively address the challenges of living in a humid climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs a rainwater harvesting system inspired by biomimicry for efficient water collection.
02
Integrates hollowcore walls for enhanced thermal performance and resource efficiency.
03
Features sloped roofs equipped with photovoltaic panels for optimized solar energy capture.
04
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
05
Designed with narrow corridors that provide shade and reduce heat exposure.

### Project Overview
The House of the Future is a residential design situated in a hot and humid climate, aiming to promote sustainable development and modern living practices. The intent is to create a home where energy efficiency and environmental considerations are paramount, while still providing a unique aesthetic grounded in natural elements. The architectural approach emphasizes advanced construction techniques and innovative solutions for water management.

### Spatial Configuration and Innovative Systems
The design thoughtfully responds to climatic challenges by integrating features inspired by natural forms, such as sand dunes and biological water-harvesting strategies. Variations in roof slopes not only enhance aesthetics but also improve ventilation and diffuse natural light within the interior spaces. Specific strategies include:

- **Sustainable Energy Solutions**: The slanted roofs incorporate photovoltaic panels for solar energy generation and include solar water heating systems to further enhance efficiency.

- **Water Harvesting Technology**: A sophisticated rainwater collection system, inspired by the water-conserving mechanisms of the darkling beetle, aims to gather between 0.5 to 3 liters of water daily, significantly reducing reliance on municipal water supply.

### Materiality and Cultural Context
Construction materials have been selected for their durability, thermal performance, and visual appeal. Core materials include concrete for structural integrity, glass for natural illumination while maintaining security, steel for support frameworks, and wood for aesthetic warmth in communal areas. Non-toxic finishes are employed to contribute to the project's sustainability ethos. The design also embraces cultural influences, reflecting aspects of traditional Damascus architecture, adapted to meet the needs of contemporary residents while honoring historic precedents.

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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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