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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Harmonious Residential Retreat

Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Harmonious Residential Retreat
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and natural stone, the design establishes a seamless connection to the surrounding environment while providing a family-focused residential space that balances communal areas with private retreats.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a traditional majlīs for cultural gatherings.
02
Uses charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
04
Integrates passive cooling strategies through careful window placement.
05
Landscaped with native flora to promote local biodiversity.

## Overview

Located in the United Arab Emirates, the design merges modern residential architecture with traditional Emirati values, creating harmonious living spaces that prioritize both privacy and community. The layout reflects an understanding of local social behaviors, facilitating interactions among family members while allowing for personal retreats, all rooted in the cultural context of Emirati life.

### Spatial Configuration and Adaptability

The spatial layout consists of two primary levels encompassing 450 m², with the ground floor designed for essential communal activities, including a living room, dining area, and kitchen, promoting fluid movement and interaction. Private spaces are thoughtfully placed to ensure privacy, while the upper level is dedicated to bedrooms and quiet areas. This structure not only addresses the current needs of families but is also designed to accommodate future expansions, recognizing the evolving dynamics within Emirati households.

### Material Selection and Cultural Resonance

Material choices reflect both modern aesthetics and traditional craftsmanship. Natural stone is utilized for wall cladding, enhancing warmth and creating a connection with the environment. Glass elements maximize natural light while maintaining privacy, and wooden details emphasize local craftsmanship. Concrete serves as the primary structural material, enabling versatile and durable space creation. Additionally, thematic elements such as traditional **majlīs** spaces underscore the importance of hospitality, thereby integrating cultural practices into the contemporary architectural framework. Enhanced by landscaping with native flora, the project fosters a connection between built and natural environments.

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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.

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