Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Harmonize in a Sustainable Residential Design

Author:
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Harmonize in a Sustainable Residential Design
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the residence emphasizes sustainability and natural ventilation in an efficient family living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and ventilation.
04
Includes a central courtyard that enhances outdoor connectivity and family interaction.
05
Employs passive cooling methods, reducing reliance on mechanical air conditioning.

## Overview
Located in Dubai, The Ghaf House reflects a commitment to sustainable architectural practices and cultural resonance, embracing the challenges of the region's desert climate. Its design centers on the national Ghaf tree, symbolizing a connection to local heritage while promoting environmental mindfulness. The project strives to harmonize modern living with traditional elements, fostering an interactive and adaptable family environment.

## Spatial Organization and User Interaction
The spatial configuration emphasizes a balance between communal and private areas. The heart of the home is the central courtyard, which enhances natural light and air circulation, establishing a recreational outdoor space for family interactions. A wind tower facilitates passive ventilation, reducing the dependence on mechanical cooling systems. The layout promotes fluid movement through the distinct zones, from the multifunctional basement to the designated living and sleeping areas, all designed to support various family activities while preserving privacy.

## Materiality and Sustainability
A thorough approach to material selection prioritizes sustainability without compromising aesthetic appeal. The design employs bamboo for its renewability, recycled concrete to minimize environmental impact, and cross-laminated timber (CLT) for structural integrity and insulation. Low-emission paints and adhesives contribute to healthier indoor air quality. The inclusion of solar panels positions the house as energy-neutral, while features like rainwater collection systems further enhance its sustainability profile. The architecture incorporates indigenous landscaping, ensuring that the structure harmonizes with its natural surroundings.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in