Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Charred Timber Facade with Breeze Blocks Enhances Privacy in Sustainable Residential Design

Charred Timber Facade with Breeze Blocks Enhances Privacy in Sustainable Residential Design
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Constructed with charred timber and enhanced by breeze blocks for ventilation, the design prioritizes energy efficiency and privacy in a modern residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred timber shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Utilizes breeze blocks to optimize ventilation while maintaining privacy.
03
Incorporates a double roof system for superior thermal regulation.
04
Features a dedicated Majlis area to honor cultural traditions of social interaction.
05
Designed with an open-plan layout to promote family connectivity and flexibility.

## Project Overview

The "House of the Future," located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, embodies a synthesis of traditional Emirati architectural elements and modern design principles. The project prioritizes functionality, privacy, and sustainability while addressing the region's unique climate and cultural context. By harmonizing traditional aesthetics with contemporary living requirements, the design aims to create a residential experience that respects cultural heritage and enhances quality of life.

## Spatial Integration and Design Philosophy

The design philosophy centers on creating a sanctuary that fosters privacy and comfort, while integrating environmental sustainability. Traditional architectural elements, such as the Majlis, segment social spaces for men and women, reinforcing cultural practices. The layout emphasizes a functional organization: family bedrooms are strategically placed on the upper floor for seclusion, while communal areas like the dining room and kitchen occupy the ground level to encourage familial interaction. Large open-plan spaces facilitate connectivity among residents, fulfilling contemporary living desires.

## Material and Climate Responsive Strategies

The project utilizes a selection of specialized materials to enhance both functionality and aesthetic expression. Breeze blocks serve as vertical and horizontal screens for ventilation and insulation, while photovoltaic cells integrated into the roof provide sustainable energy. A double roof system mitigates external heat, maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. The incorporation of natural landscaping using local plants promotes ecological balance and minimizes water usage, aligning with the sustainability goals of the design.

Furthermore, solutions for natural ventilation include strategically placed windows that facilitate cross airflow, significantly reducing dependence on mechanical cooling systems. The use of heavy materials contributes to thermal mass, helping regulate indoor temperatures against the extremes of Dubai's climate. Such thoughtful integration of environmental considerations not only enhances the inhabitants' comfort but also contributes to long-term energy efficiency.

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