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Charred Wooden Screens and Passive Cooling Strategies in Desert Residences

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Charred Wooden Screens and Passive Cooling Strategies in Desert Residences
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Charred wooden screens and thermal mass construction combine to create a sustainable living environment that enhances ventilation and privacy while addressing the demands of desert climate conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wood cladding enhances durability while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural stability and reduced carbon footprint.
03
Integrated passive cooling systems optimize indoor temperatures without relying on mechanical cooling.
04
Moucharabieh elements promote natural ventilation and privacy while reducing sun exposure.
05
The bent A-frame design facilitates efficient water runoff and maximizes ceiling height.

### Overview
Located in a desert region with extreme heat, Al Moucharabieh addresses climatic challenges while reflecting cultural heritage and modern residential demands. The design integrates traditional elements, particularly the moucharabieh, within a contemporary framework aimed at enhancing livability and environmental responsiveness. Two variations in architectural schematics, Option 01 and Option 02, feature distinct facade treatments and structural compositions that cater to diverse aesthetic and functional preferences.

### Climatic Responsiveness
The design prioritizes effective thermal management strategies to combat intense solar exposure and maintain comfort within the living spaces. Key features include extensive overhangs that minimize direct sunlight during peak hours, as well as the use of moucharabieh on the facades to regulate light and airflow, which further reduces the dependency on mechanical cooling systems. These strategies align with sustainable design principles, promoting energy efficiency and user comfort.

### Material Utilization
The material selection across the project is varied and intentional, contributing both to the structural integrity and aesthetic expression. Concrete serves as the primary structural medium, while expansive glass elements bring in natural light, enhancing the interior environment. Wood is strategically used in the moucharabieh, providing warmth and contrast against the concrete and glass. Additionally, exposed steel elements offer support for vegetation and the structural framework, integrating functionality with modern design. Exterior finishes, including light grey paint for heat reflection and dark grey stamped concrete for visual depth, reinforce the project’s cohesive material palette.

The spatial organization emphasizes utility and comfort, with open living areas on the ground floor promoting connectivity with outdoor spaces, while private spaces on the first floor are designed to capture scenic views. Overall, Al Moucharabieh showcases a balanced integration of cultural relevance and contemporary innovation, positioning it as a representative model for future desert architecture.

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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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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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