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Charred Wooden Screens and Elevated Structure Define This Sustainable Family Residence

Charred Wooden Screens and Elevated Structure Define This Sustainable Family Residence
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Elevated and enhanced by charred wooden screens, this family residence utilizes sustainable materials and natural ventilation to create a modern living environment rooted in cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure incorporates natural ventilation strategies to reduce energy consumption.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing aesthetic texture.
03
Large interior light wells maximize natural light throughout living spaces.
04
The design integrates traditional Mashrabiya screens for privacy and airflow.
05
Indoor gardens create biophilic connections within the home environment.

## Project Overview

Beit Al-Hawa is situated within a context that draws inspiration from traditional Middle Eastern architectural practices, particularly reflecting Emirati heritage. The design seeks to integrate contemporary living with elements of cultural significance, ensuring functionality while catering to environmental considerations.

### Spatial Strategy and Environmental Integration

The architectural approach emphasizes an elevated design, positioning the living spaces above a basement parking area to optimize space utilization and enhance natural air circulation. The incorporation of natural ventilation systems, including strategically placed windows for cross-ventilation, minimizes dependence on mechanical cooling, underscoring a commitment to energy efficiency. A light well integrated into the structure allows natural light to penetrate deep within the living areas, further reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

### Material Selection and Aesthetic Cohesion

Material choices are fundamental to the architectural expression of Beit Al-Hawa. Durable concrete serves as the primary structural material, while masonry units are utilized for the traditional Mashrabiya screens, providing an aesthetic nod to heritage with enhanced privacy. Expansive glass openings facilitate a connection with the outdoor environment, allowing for increased daylight transmission. The use of natural wood finishes adds warmth and textural variation within the interiors, complemented by modern metal elements that contrast effectively with the warmer materials. Textiles in furnishings are selected for both comfort and durability, aligning with the climatic demands of the region.

Key features include the classic Mashrabiya screens, which allow filtered light into the interiors while ensuring privacy, and an open-floor plan that encourages movement and interaction among spaces. Additionally, strategically placed indoor gardens contribute to the aesthetic and promote a connection to nature within the living environment.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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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