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Charred Wood Shingles and Concrete Forms in Desert-Integrated Residence

Charred Wood Shingles and Concrete Forms in Desert-Integrated Residence
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Using charred wood shingles and expansive concrete forms, the residence is designed to withstand desert conditions while promoting energy efficiency and communal living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance in arid climates.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a central courtyard to maximize natural light and ventilation.
04
Employs large glass openings to blur indoor and outdoor boundaries.
05
Design includes multifunctional spaces to accommodate varying resident needs.

### Overview

"House of the Future" is situated in an arid landscape, designed to respond effectively to the environmental conditions characteristic of desert regions. The project integrates functionality and sustainability, addressing the essential needs of modern living while fostering a relationship between the built environment and the natural surroundings. The design aims to create distinct spatial experiences that enrich daily life.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality

The layout is organized into four quadrants, each designated for specific functions: the **Service Quadrant** includes practical spaces such as the entry and parking, prioritizing privacy for service access; the **Public Quadrant** accommodates communal areas like the living room and open dining space, designed to encourage social interaction; the **Family Quadrant** offers recreation and leisure with amenities such as a pool and jacuzzi; and the **Private Quadrant** provides rooms for rest and solitude.

Central to this organization is the courtyard, which not only facilitates natural ventilation and daylight but also enhances the spatial flow between different sections of the house. This arrangement reflects contemporary residential needs while promoting community engagement.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The design employs a diverse array of materials chosen for their functional benefits and aesthetic qualities. **Concrete** is utilized throughout the structure for its durability and thermal efficiency, essential in managing the extreme temperatures of the desert ecosystem. **Extensive glazing** through windows and sliding doors invites ample natural light and fosters connections to the exterior environment. **Wood elements** offer shading from the sun while adding warmth, and **natural stone** connects the interiors to the landscape, enhancing the overall coherence of the design. **Metal components** contribute to structural integrity and decorative elements, providing a modern aesthetic.

Sustainability is a key focus, with features such as solar panels and integrated water management systems evidencing a commitment to environmentally responsible practices. This design approach not only maximizes resale value but also adapts to the specific challenges posed by the desert, ensuring long-term viability and reduced environmental impact.

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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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