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 Wood Facade With Courtyard Design Enhancing Natural Ventilation in Residential Living

Authors:
Ghalib Anwar Alsaid, Fatima Zohra El Bekri El Alaoui, Stephen Thomas Hopkins
Charred Wood Facade With Courtyard Design Enhancing Natural Ventilation in Residential Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with a charred wood facade and designed around a central courtyard that optimizes natural ventilation, the residence exemplifies a harmonious blend of traditional Emirati aesthetics and contemporary sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using a combination of charred wooden shingles and local stone for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Incorporates a central courtyard designed to optimize natural light and ventilation throughout the residence.
03
Features a cleverly designed bent A-frame structure that balances aesthetic appeal with functional resilience.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels, promoting sustainability and reducing overall environmental impact.
05
The layout prioritizes flexible living spaces, allowing for adaptability as family needs evolve over time.

The architectural project "A Vernacular Future" exemplifies a contemporary reinterpretation of traditional Emirati residential design, focusing on sustainable living that echoes historical practices. This project is situated in the United Arab Emirates, an area where the interplay of cultural heritage and modernity defines the architectural landscape. The design enhances the established typology of the courtyard house, serving practical functions while maintaining social and climatic relevance.

The project's central theme revolves around adapting traditional elements for modern life. It consists of a dual-level structure that seamlessly fuses private and communal spaces, allowing for family interaction while preserving privacy. At its core lies the courtyard, which serves as both the environmental and social heart of the home, fostering engagement among family members and providing a climate-controlled gathering space.

Material choices are significant in the design. Local stone, concrete, glass, and wood are prominently featured. The local stone contributes to the thermal performance of the building while reinforcing its connection to the regional context. Concrete supports the structural integrity of the design, ensuring longevity and stability. The incorporation of glass facilitates natural light and views, enhancing the living experience. Wood elements add warmth and texture, promoting a more inviting atmosphere.

Innovative design strategies differentiate this project from typical residential designs. The emphasis on passive climate control through stacking and overhangs illustrates a forward-thinking approach to sustainability. The building's orientation leverages natural ventilation, optimizing indoor comfort without reliance on mechanical systems. Furthermore, the layout encourages cross-ventilation, reducing energy requirements and promoting environmental responsibility.

The integration of advanced water management systems, such as rainwater harvesting, underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability. Moreover, the structure's adaptability is a noteworthy feature, allowing living spaces to evolve alongside changing family dynamics. This design responds to current needs while positioning the architecture for future relevance.

Architectural plans and sections provide further insights into this project’s thoughtful arrangement and effective use of space. The detailed analysis of these elements reveals the careful consideration of light, flow, and interaction throughout the home.

For a more comprehensive understanding of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural designs, sections, and plans presented. Such an exploration offers a deeper appreciation of the design's nuances and its innovative approach to blending tradition with modern living.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

`

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy