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Charred Wooden Shingles and Solar Efficiency in Compact Sustainable Living

Charred Wooden Shingles and Solar Efficiency in Compact Sustainable Living
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Constructed with charred wooden shingles and equipped with solar panels, this compact structure maximizes energy efficiency while providing a versatile living space in the Delta del Río de la Plata.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural efficiency and thermal insulation.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize interior space and facilitate natural light.
04
Equipped with a rainwater harvesting system to support sustainable living practices.
05
Strategically positioned for optimal solar exposure, maximizing energy generation from solar panels.

## Windblades Architectural Design Overview

**Location:** Buenos Aires, Argentina (Delta del Río de la Plata)

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### Conceptual Framework

The Windblades design integrates sustainable architectural principles with the unique ecological and social contexts of the Delta del Río de la Plata. The project draws on the traditional cabin typology of the region while adapting modern living standards to promote affordability and environmental responsibility. By combining aesthetic appeal with functionality, the design fosters an interconnected living environment that prioritizes both individual privacy and communal interaction.

### Spatial Strategy

The layout features a compact footprint of approximately 25 square meters, originating from a simple 6m x 6m square, which is organized into three interconnected zones: communal space, sleeping quarters, and washroom facilities. This modular arrangement maximizes natural light and promotes cross-ventilation, allowing for adaptability to diverse lifestyles. The ground floor plan effectively distinguishes between public and private areas while enhancing overall connectivity, thereby encouraging social interaction.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The selection of materials is critical to the project's sustainability objectives. Primary materials include local timber for structural components, which add warmth and minimize the ecological footprint, and galvanized steel for roofing and facades, enhancing durability. Features such as double-glazed windows contribute to thermal efficiency, while solar panels provide renewable energy, reducing reliance on conventional power sources. A rainwater harvesting system furthers the project's commitment to environmental responsibility by minimizing wastewater and promoting resource conservation.

Overall, the Windblades project exemplifies contemporary architectural practices that prioritize energy efficiency, ecological stewardship, and community integration, offering a model for future developments focused on sustainable living.

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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.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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