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Charred Wooden Shingles and Sandstone Facades Define a Sustainable Multigenerational Home

Charred Wooden Shingles and Sandstone Facades Define a Sustainable Multigenerational Home
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With its charred wooden shingles and sandstone cladding that reflect local heritage, the design creates adaptable, multigenerational living spaces geared towards sustainable family dynamics.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide natural fire resistance while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels ensure quick assembly and structural stability.
03
The bent A-frame design enables effective rainwater drainage and passive cooling.
04
Internal courtyards foster natural ventilation and light optimization throughout the home.
05
Adaptive room configurations support evolving family needs over time.

### Overview
The Dubai House of the Future, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, is situated within a densely populated suburban neighborhood in Dubai. This residential project aims to embody a synthesis of advanced architectural design and sustainable practices while reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Emirate. The design challenges traditional residential concepts by incorporating adaptable living spaces and innovative technologies that address the contemporary needs of its inhabitants.

### Adaptive Spatial Solutions
Central to the design is an emphasis on flexibility and adaptability, allowing for the dynamic reconfiguration of living spaces to accommodate various family structures and needs. The layout permits expansions or modifications without substantial structural alterations, enhancing the functionality of the home for multigenerational living. Shared spaces foster interaction among family members while offering private areas that respect individual needs. The design integrates passive cooling techniques through a subterranean water system connected to a ventilation chimney, which minimally impacts energy consumption while improving indoor air quality.

### Material Selection and Integration
The choice of materials plays a significant role in the project's architectural expression. Reinforced concrete ensures structural integrity, while extensive use of glass invites natural light and openness into the home. Timber vertical slats provide both shade and ventilation, nodding to traditional Emirati design motifs. Sandstone cladding links the structure to its arid environment and enhances thermal efficiency. Solar panels are integral to the energy systems, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. Additionally, internal courtyards and landscaped areas establish a connection with nature, promoting ecological health while enhancing the overall aesthetic experience of the residence.

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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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