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Charred Screens and Renewable Materials Define a Sustainable Family Residence in Dubai

Charred Screens and Renewable Materials Define a Sustainable Family Residence in Dubai
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Employing charred wood screens for privacy and natural ventilation, this sustainable residence in Dubai integrates local materials and energy-efficient systems to create an inviting family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wood screens provide effective privacy while promoting natural airflow.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for enhanced structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space and aesthetic appeal.
04
Landscaped courtyards incorporate traditional Islamic garden principles for tranquility.
05
Locally sourced materials reduce the carbon footprint and connect the residence to its environment.

### Overview

Al Shams House is situated in Dubai, reflecting a commitment to contemporary residential design that harmonizes urban sustainability and cultural heritage. Designed in alignment with the UAE’s vision for 2050, the house represents the amalgamation of modern architectural practices and traditional Islamic influences. The project aims to provide a sustainable living environment while emphasizing the importance of local narratives in an increasingly urban landscape.

### Sustainable Design and Materiality

The architectural framework emphasizes sustainability through the integration of efficient energy systems and environmentally conscious material selection. Key features include solar chimneys for natural ventilation and the use of locally sourced materials to minimize carbon footprints. The façade employs geometric patterns and screens, which are inspired by traditional Islamic art, allowing for optimal airflow and natural light while ensuring privacy. The use of concrete and reinforced steel enhances durability and resilience to the regional climate, while high windows of glass facilitate daylight penetration, fostering a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The layout of Al Shams House is carefully crafted to balance communal and private spaces. The ground floor consists of open areas, including a living room and kitchen designed to promote family interaction, with high ceilings and expansive windows to maximize natural light. In contrast, private zones on the upper floor ensure family privacy with thoughtful transitions to enhance comfort. Additionally, the landscaped garden incorporates traditional Islamic elements, creating a serene environment complemented by water features that contribute to the microclimate, fostering relaxation and social engagement.

### Innovative Features

Distinctive elements of the design include strategically positioned solar panels that harness renewable energy, significantly reducing operational costs. The house also serves as a community model, aiming to improve living conditions for residents, particularly in need of affordable housing solutions. By interweaving modern architectural design with cultural significance, Al Shams House establishes a residential environment that resonates with the rich historical context of the UAE while addressing the contemporary challenges of urban living.

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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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