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Charred Wooden Shingles and Windcatchers Defining a Community Space in Arched Residential Design

Charred Wooden Shingles and Windcatchers Defining a Community Space in Arched Residential Design
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and traditional windcatchers, this residential design optimizes natural ventilation and community interaction through its unique arched form.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional windcatchers for passive cooling and ventilation.
02
Features a double skin facade for enhanced thermal efficiency.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for durability and fire resistance.
04
Includes community corridors to promote neighborly interaction.
05
Designed with flexibility for future adaptations of living spaces.

**Overview**

The ArcHouse is an architectural project situated in the United Arab Emirates, designed to align with the cultural, climatic, and social demands of the region. Its concept integrates traditional elements with modern design principles to create a residence that reflects community values and family connectivity. Key features include an arch-shaped structure that serves as a motif of welcoming and safety, accommodating local cultural practices and promoting interpersonal interactions.

**Architectural Strategy**

The design incorporates a double skin facade, which is instrumental in minimizing heat transfer and reducing noise infiltration, contributing to energy efficiency. This innovative feature is particularly significant in the UAE's challenging climate, as it helps maintain indoor comfort and achieves up to a 19% reduction in energy consumption compared to conventional facades. Additionally, traditional wind catchers are integrated to facilitate natural cooling, which merges modern efficiency with historical architectural practices. Outdoor amenities, such as a pool and private garden, enhance recreational opportunities while addressing the need for privacy and comfort.

**Material and Sustainability**

Material choices emphasize both environmental sustainability and aesthetic appeal. Key components include stone tiles for durability and insulation, timber to introduce a warm atmosphere, and aluminum mesh to regulate sunlight and improve thermal comfort. The strategic orientation and layout of the building optimize service zones and enhance ventilation, reinforcing a commitment to eco-friendly design. The flexibility of the floor plans allows for future adaptability, accommodating changing family needs and supporting sustainable living in response to escalating housing demands within the region.

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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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