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Charred Wooden Screens and Insulated Concrete Create a Sustainable Family Residence

Charred Wooden Screens and Insulated Concrete Create a Sustainable Family Residence
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Utilizing charred wooden screens and insulated concrete, the residence achieves a balance of sustainable design and natural aesthetics, providing a functional family living space that embraces its surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced sandstone for enhanced environmental integration.
02
Incorporates passive cooling techniques through strategically positioned lattice screens.
03
Features a central courtyard that maximizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Includes multi-functional spaces designed for future adaptability.
05
Integrates solar panels and wind turbines for energy self-sufficiency.

### Project Overview
This residential design project is set in an unspecified location, characterized by a contemporary architectural approach that harmonizes traditional and modern design principles. The residence features a ground-level structure with a partial basement, strategically planned to foster a connection between indoor and outdoor environments while prioritizing sustainability through innovative features and energy-efficient systems.

### Spatial Organization
The layout is divided into three distinct zones: private, semi-private, and public. The private area comprises bedrooms and bathrooms, offering personal spaces with direct access to balconies to enhance privacy. In contrast, the semi-private zone includes family-oriented spaces such as the kitchen, dining area, and family room, designed with an open-concept layout to encourage interaction and connectivity. The public zone features entry courtyards and landscaped areas that facilitate guest engagement, ensuring a welcoming transition from the external environment. Multi-functional spaces, such as a driver’s annex, further enhance usability while maintaining family privacy.

### Material Strategy and Sustainability
The selection of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and regional resources. Insulated concrete panels provide thermal efficiency, while locally sourced sandstone offers structural integrity and aesthetic continuity. Large glass elements facilitate natural light and promote indoor-outdoor living. Decorative elements are crafted from steel or wood, balancing durability and artistic expression. Passive cooling strategies are integrated through features such as shaded terraces and natural ventilation systems. Renewable energy solutions, including solar panels and proposed wind turbines, are incorporated to achieve a net-zero energy goal and promote self-sufficiency, positioning the residence as an example of responsible and adaptive architectural practice.

### Landscaping
The landscaping design enhances the overall project, featuring outdoor gardens and seating areas that encourage interaction with the natural setting. Native planting choices aim to reduce water consumption while promoting local biodiversity. Pathways and decorative elements are thoughtfully integrated, guiding visitors through the outdoor spaces and contributing to a sense of tranquility.

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Enter an open architecture
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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.

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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