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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Limestone Integrate Sustainability in Modern Residential Design

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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Limestone Integrate Sustainability in Modern Residential Design
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and locally sourced limestone, the design achieves a balance of modern aesthetics and environmental sustainability, creating an inviting and functional family residence in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while adding texture to the facade.
02
Locally sourced limestone contributes to thermal efficiency and reduces environmental impact.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes space utilization and creates dynamic interior volumes.
04
Integrated smart home technology enhances energy management and security.
05
Garden spaces promote biodiversity and outdoor family engagement.

## Project Overview

This residential development is situated in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, aligning with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which prioritizes sustainable urban development. The intent is to create a model Emirati house that integrates modern architectural practices with traditional cultural values. The design focuses on enhancing residents' quality of life, emphasizing sustainability, privacy, thermal comfort, and spatial efficiency.

## Spatial Organization and Layout

The design features a strategic L-shaped layout that delineates different zones within the residential space. The ground floor comprises public and semi-public areas, including a garage, living spaces, and a private garden, promoting communal interaction while maintaining privacy. The first floor consists of dedicated private family quarters, effectively separating personal and communal activities.

### Architectural Elements and Materiality

Key architectural features include a façade equipped with advanced shading systems that optimize natural ventilation and minimize solar heat gain. The roof structure is designed for solar energy collection, supporting the sustainability objectives. The material selection is carefully curated, utilizing local limestone for thermal efficiency, recycled waste stone, and low-VOC finishes to ensure indoor air quality. Large glass panels enhance natural light, contributing to an open and airy environment.

## Environmental Strategies

The design incorporates several sustainable practices in line with the goals of the Dubai 2040 plan. Efficient waste management systems are implemented for effective waste separation, while water conservation measures are integrated to reduce consumption and manage runoff. Additionally, solar panels on the roof provide renewable energy, reinforcing the commitment to environmental stewardship.

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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 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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