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Charred Wood Shingles and Open-Plan Living in a Sustainable Family Residence

Charred Wood Shingles and Open-Plan Living in a Sustainable Family Residence
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Utilizing charred wood shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal, this sustainable family residence seamlessly integrates open-plan living with a central courtyard, fostering a harmonious connection to the surrounding natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for weather resistance and fire protection.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, enhancing structural integrity and thermal efficiency.
03
Features a central courtyard designed for natural ventilation and light penetration.
04
Emphasizes a bent A-frame design to create dynamic interior spaces and views.
05
Integrates native landscaping to minimize irrigation and promote local biodiversity.

### Overview

Located in a contemporary urban context, this residential design emphasizes sustainability and integration with its environment. The primary intention is to create a living space that balances luxury and practicality, providing residents with areas for communal engagement as well as private retreats. The design achieves a harmonious relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, prioritizing natural light and ventilation throughout the home. A central courtyard serves as an outdoor sanctuary, facilitating interaction with nature while offering a tranquil respite from the urban setting.

### Spatial Dynamics

The design reflects an understanding of spatial organization, merging open-plan living areas with more intimate spaces. Fluid transitions between environments encourage movement and interaction, creating opportunities for family engagement while ensuring areas for solitude. The central courtyard is pivotal to this layout, functioning as a visual and experiential focal point that enhances livability. The thoughtfully arranged spaces facilitate flexible use, accommodating various activities within shared and private environments alike.

### Material Considerations

The project's material palette is carefully selected to prioritize sustainability and aesthetic harmony. Structural elements and finishes feature durable concrete, while expansive glass panels optimize natural light and outdoor visibility. Warm wood tones enhance interior spaces, contrasting with the cooler concrete, and natural stone integrates landscaping features with the architecture. Additionally, eco-friendly textiles contribute to the comfort and appeal of the interiors. The inclusion of rock mulch as a sustainable ground cover supports local flora and reduces maintenance requirements, further emphasizing the project's commitment to environmental stewardship.

### Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is a central theme in the design, with the incorporation of locally sourced materials that minimize the carbon impact of construction. Energy-efficient glazing and insulation techniques enhance the home's thermal performance while maintaining interior comfort. The implementation of advanced energy management systems, including solar panels and rainwater harvesting, enables eco-conscious living without compromising aesthetic values. This thorough approach to sustainability not only addresses environmental concerns but also enriches the quality of life within the residence.

### Distinctive Features

Unique elements of the design include adaptable open spaces that cater to diverse activities, from family gatherings to quiet reflection. Strategic placement of doors and windows fosters a continuous connection to nature, enhancing both light and privacy for occupants. The landscape is intentionally designed with desert-inspired gardens featuring native plants that require minimal water, promoting local biodiversity. Each private space within the residence is tailored to reflect individual preferences while contributing to a cohesive overall aesthetic, ensuring that the home caters to the varied needs of its inhabitants.

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Enter an open architecture
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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
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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