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Brushed Concrete and Polystyrene Cladding in a Sustainable Family Residence

Brushed Concrete and Polystyrene Cladding in a Sustainable Family Residence
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Constructed with brushed concrete and lightweight polystyrene, this energy-efficient residence integrates open-plan living with sustainable materials to create a modern family home that harmonizes with its desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using prefabricated modular units to optimize construction efficiency.
02
Incorporates drought-resistant landscaping to reduce water consumption in the desert environment.
03
Features a unique louvred window system that enhances natural ventilation and energy efficiency.
04
Utilizes brushed concrete cladding combined with polystyrene for improved thermal insulation.
05
Designed with an open-plan layout to foster seamless indoor-outdoor living experiences.

### Overview

Located in the urban context of Dubai, the residential design integrates sustainability, functionality, and modern living principles. The intent is to create a space that reflects the qualities of Protection, Welcome, and Liberty, offering an innovative approach to residential architecture that addresses both climatic challenges and the needs of contemporary family life.

### Spatial Organization

The design is systematically structured into four modular units, each prefabricated to enhance efficiency and reduce material waste during construction. The ground floor is dedicated to communal areas, including a living room, kitchen, and dining space, promoting connectivity for family interactions. The first floor features private living quarters with bedrooms equipped with dressing areas and bathrooms, balancing privacy with openness. The second floor accommodates adaptable family spaces, showcasing flexibility to adapt to changing familial requirements. The integration of outdoor living areas, through fully retractable glass doors, extends the interior spaces and fosters a connection with nature.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The choice of materials plays a critical role in achieving durability, aesthetic appeal, and energy efficiency. Brushed concrete cladding provides a modern texture and structural robustness. Polystyrene rendered cladding enhances insulation and cost-effectiveness, while aluminum battens contribute to visual interest and privacy without compromising airflow. Louvred windows facilitate natural ventilation, assisting in reducing dependence on mechanical cooling systems, and Tasmanian Oak finishes add warmth and tactile comfort to the interior design. The overall design strategy promotes a commendable 6-star energy rating, emphasizing passive design approaches for natural light optimization and indoor climate control. Additionally, the placement of native, drought-tolerant landscaping aligns the project with local ecological requirements, merging built forms with the natural environment.

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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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