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Charred Timber Screens and Natural Ventilation Define a Modern Family Residence in the Uae
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Charred timber screens elegantly regulate natural light and airflow while creating distinct zones of privacy in a modern residence designed to support family gatherings in the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden screens provide both aesthetic appeal and functional privacy while maintaining airflow.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural stability and sustainability.
03
A modular layout allows flexible use of space for evolving family dynamics.
04
The design incorporates interstitial areas for natural ventilation and cooling.
05
Landscaping integrates with the architecture to support biodiversity and outdoor connectivity.

### Overview

The House of the Future is situated in the United Arab Emirates, aiming to harmonize traditional Emirati values with contemporary architectural practices. This residential design focuses on creating a family-oriented environment that prioritizes privacy while adapting to the region's climatic challenges. Through its architectural strategies, the project seeks to foster a sense of community among residents while also creating intimate spaces for individual reflection.

### Spatial Strategy and Organization

The design employs a perimeter strategy that enhances privacy and optimizes environmental comfort through natural ventilation and light. The outer boundary incorporates vegetation, which not only contributes to aesthetic appeal but also offers passive cooling benefits. A modular grid system, based on a 30 cm x 30 cm plot, organizes spaces effectively, delineating areas of social interaction from those intended for private retreat. Interior spaces are layered to promote versatility, enabling various functions—from casual family gatherings to more formal social events.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Material selection in the House of the Future reflects both its cultural context and functional aspirations. Concrete and masonry are used for structural integrity, while wood and glass are integrated to introduce warmth and transparency in living environments. Notably, traditional masonry screens, such as Mashrabiyas, serve to control light and privacy, aligning with local lifestyle needs. Thermal insulation is employed to enhance energy efficiency, further underscoring the project’s commitment to sustainable living. The innovative use of interstitial spaces facilitates natural ventilation, contributing to improved indoor air quality while reducing reliance on mechanical climate control systems.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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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.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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